His wool weighed 60 pounds which is enough to make 20 suits for men.

He also became the star of a number of children's books. He is supposed to be sheared every year, but he escaped and hid in a cave for six years. Huge collection, amazing choice, 100+ million high quality, affordable RF and RM images. But his incredible story made him a national celebrity.įollowing his shearing, Shrek made a number of public appearances, including a visit to New Zealand's national parliament to meet then Prime Minister Helen Clark. Find the perfect shrek sheep stock photo.

In New Zealand, where sheep are thought to outnumber the human population of 4.3 million people by 10 to 1, it is hard to imagine how one sheep could stand out. Highly valued for their fleece, Merino sheep are said to grow some of the finest and softest wool, which is commonly used by the clothing industry. His long-awaited shearing was then broadcast live on television.

When he was finally recovered, he was weighed down by an incredible 27 kilogram-fleece. The Merino made headlines across the world in 2004 when he was found living in a cave after six years on the loose. Merinos are usually shorn once a year, but Shrek had other ideas, going out on the lamb, hiding in caves and avoiding capture for an incredible six years before he was finally mustered in April 2004. (CNN) - New Zealand's national icon, Shrek the sheep, died on a South Island farm at the weekend at the age of 16, broadcaster TVNZ has reported. Shrek The Fugitive Merino Shrek was a male Merino from Tarras, New Zealand, one of 17,000 sheep living on the Bendigo Station wool farm.

Owner John Perriam said he was forced to put down Shrek because of his waning health.

Shrek made number of public appearances, including a visit to New Zealand's parliament.

Shrek made headlines in 2004 when he was found in living in a cave after six years on loose.