In a tranquil and non-violent demonstration, a small group of activists representing the animal rights organization Animal Rising staged a protest near Dalscone Farm, which was intended to be Fiona’s new residence. Their objective was to advocate for relocating her to a sanctuary rather than a “petting zoo” where she might be treated as a spectacle.
A controversy has arisen concerning the relocation of Fiona, the sheep dubbed ‘Britain’s loneliest sheep,’ to a new home. For more than two years, she had been stranded at the base of cliffs in the Scottish Highlands. On a Saturday, local farmers Als Couzens, Graeme Parker, James Parker, and Ally Williamson successfully rescued her, as reported by the BBC.
However, on Sunday (November 5), a peaceful and non-violent protest took place outside Dalscone Farm, which was supposed to be Fiona’s new home. A group of activists from the animal rights organization Animal Rising gathered to express their desire to relocate her to a sanctuary rather than a “petting zoo” where she might become an attraction.
Ben Best, the farm manager, took to Facebook in a video, expressing that the staff and family members at Dalscone Farm felt “intimidated” by the protestors holding “Free Fiona” signs. He assured the public that they intended to provide Fiona with a comfortable home and the opportunity to make friends without any disruptions to her well-being.
A spokesperson from Animal Rising, Robert Gordon, mentioned that they were open to discussions with the rescuers and Dalscone Farm to find a suitable compromise. He emphasized that there was no pressure on the farm owners to meet with them if they felt genuinely intimidated.
Additionally, Animal Rising claimed that the farmers had rescued Fiona from the cliff without involving them in the process.
The online petition to rescue Fiona was initiated when a kayaker discovered her trapped at the base of a cliff near Cromarty Firth, two years after her previous sighting in October. Her situation quickly gained widespread attention, with thousands of people signing the petition.
Known as “Britain’s loneliest sheep,” Fiona is currently being kept at a secret location after activists arrived at Dalscone Farm. She has been shorn and is in good health, although she is slightly overweight.
Ben Best expressed concern, saying, “Only a few of us know her whereabouts. It’s regrettable because she needs a safe and stable environment, and the people claiming to act in her best interests are not providing that.”
Professional shearer Cammy Wilson led the rescue operation on the Saturday when Fiona was successfully liberated from her matted and overgrown fleece. Fiona will remain at her undisclosed location until the dispute over her future residence is resolved.
