In a heartwarming festive update, Britain's most famous ovine resident is preparing for motherhood. Fiona, once dubbed the nation's 'loneliest sheep', is expecting twins following a dedicated two-year health transformation at her sanctuary in Scotland.
From Cliffside Ordeal to Farmyard Fame
The ewe's extraordinary story began when she was discovered, having somehow survived for over two years alone on a remote beach at the foot of a cliff in north-west Scotland's Cromarty Firth. Her plight captured global attention in October 2023 after a kayaker photographed her. A complex rescue mission was launched, involving specialist climbers, a winch, and 200 metres of rope to pluck her to safety in November 2023.
Upon her arrival at Dalscone Farm in Dumfries, rescuers were concerned by her size. "We were shocked at how fat she was," officials noted at the time. Her new carers immediately put her on a tailored diet and hormone treatment to improve her health and chances of conceiving.
A Christmas Revelation and a Health Transformation
Ben Best, the manager of Dalscone Farm, chose Christmas Day 2025 to share the joyful news that had been kept secret to protect Fiona from distress. He revealed that Fiona is now "a shadow of her former self" and in excellent health, aside from manageable arthritis in one front leg.
"Health-wise, she is doing great," Mr Best stated. "The weight loss has definitely helped [the arthritis]. She's doing really well." After being introduced to a ram, her weight initially increased, leading to a scan that confirmed the pregnancy with twins. She is due to give birth at the start of February 2026 and is undergoing regular blood tests.
A Legacy of Wool and Worldwide Support
Fiona's remarkable journey has inspired support from across the globe. A JustGiving page set up after her rescue raised more than four times its £2,500 target, with donations flowing in from countries including Australia, the USA, and Canada.
Her legacy continues in practical ways at the farm. "We've used her fleece this year to make bespoke tumble dryer balls and felted soap," Mr Best explained, noting these items are sold in their Christmas shop alongside wool from other farm residents.
Mr Best expressed confidence in Fiona's maternal prospects, saying her body was now ready to carry lambs after the significant weight loss and that she had been "excited" about becoming a first-time mum. From a solitary figure on a desolate beach to an expectant mother at the heart of a caring community, Fiona's story remains one of resilience and second chances.
