Suojakarit

Suojakarit is a Finnish term that translates to "protective ewes" or "guard ewes." It refers to a practice in sheep farming where a few ewes are strategically placed within a flock of lambs. The primary purpose of these suojakarit is to offer a degree of protection to the lambs against predators such as foxes, wolves, or dogs.

These ewes are typically chosen for their calm temperament, maternal instincts, and sometimes for their larger size or more robust build. They are expected to be vigilant and to react to potential threats by displaying aggressive or defensive behavior towards the predator, thereby deterring it from attacking the lambs. This behavior can include vocalizations, charging, or standing their ground to shield the lambs.

The effectiveness of suojakarit can vary depending on the predator species, the terrain, the number of protective ewes, and the individual temperament of the ewes themselves. This method is often considered a more natural and less intrusive form of predator control compared to other methods. Farmers using this technique often select ewes that have proven their protective qualities in previous seasons. It is a practice rooted in traditional sheep husbandry and continues to be employed in some regions.