Image of the day
Dec 12, 2019
On the lookout for Sheep-Cote Clod
© John Porter LRPS/Alamy
You're looking at one of the oldest breeds of sheep in the world. Icelandic sheep are descended from short-tailed sheep brought to the island from Norway in the 9th and 10th centuries with the first waves of settlers. These sheep, with their dual-layer woolly coats, thrive in this harsh environment, outnumbering people in Iceland by more than 2-to-1. But on December 12, Icelandic sheep, especially the ewes, will have to contend with something more fearsome than the wind chill factor. Sheep-Cote Clod, the first of the 13 Yule Lads, is due to visit. Who's that and what's he up to? Take our quiz to find out.
Learn moreQuick fact:The Yule Lads visit Icelanders' homes this time of year, and so does the vicious Yule Cat.Learn more