Sheep and goats

These "small" ruminants have been part of Austrian farming for millennia. Their importance to agriculture had been rather minor in recent decades – cattle were long considered more "productive" in terms of milk and meat production.

Within the framework of extensive agriculture, sheep and goats are becoming increasingly important, as they contribute to better utilization of existing grasslands. Approximately 349,000 sheep and 70,700 goats graze on Austria's meadows today. Around 22,800 farms keep these animals, primarily in alpine regions and as a secondary source of income. (cf. http://www.bmlfuw.gv.at/land/produktion-maerkte/tierische-produktion/rinder-schweine-usw/schafe.html)

Sheep products, in particular, enjoy widespread popularity. Wool and hides, which are processed into comfortable, warm, and natural clothing, are of course paramount. But milk and meat from these animals are also gaining increasing popularity. Sheep salami and ham, such as those produced at the Fischergut farm on Lake Wolfgang, are highly sought after far beyond the region. But they taste best, of course, right where they're made – in the Salzkammergut!