Timm Freymann is a shepherd who loves his job. This profession is highly regarded in the region of North-Rhine Westphalia. In this interview, he tells us about his day-to-day life as a shepherd and what he likes about it the most.
How long have you been a shepherd and what do you like the most about your profession?
When I was a child, I used to run after the shepherds who used to wander through our local area. I was fascinated by this job even from a very young age. I was attracted by both a sense of permanence and of new possibilities and challenges.
What does a shepherd actually have to do on a day-to-day basis?
A shepherd must primarily ensure that his animals are well fed and healthy. Having a sick sheep is a disaster for a shepherd which is why I particularly ensure that all the sheep are being well fed. From time to time, I have to pay special attention to an individual animal, for example, it may need its hooves clipping. I am also responsible for harvesting hay.
There is a long tradition of shepherding in North-Rhine Westphalia – presumably because there are many places available for grazing. How do sheep help to support the ecology of a particular area?
Sheep are highly valued as a species that helps to support conservation as they help to keep the landscape open and prevent scrub encroachment which affects soil fertility. They also help with seed dispersal and they compact down the soil with their hooves.
Where are the most beautiful locations in North-Rhine Westphalia for shepherds and their sheep?
Personally, I love the Siebengebirge Hills. The Siebengebirge Nature Park is not just a wonderful place for shepherds and sheep but also has a great deal to offer visitors.
Stay at
our new JUFA Hotel Königswinter/Bonn***s. Our new hotel has excellent and comfortable facilities and is an ideal base from which to explore the region around the Siebengebirge Hills. Good to know: a shepherd visits the hotel together with his flock twice a year! Don’t miss this unique experience!