Sheep that avoided shearing dead at 16

BENDIGO STATION, New Zealand, June 7 (UPI) -- A New Zealand sheep that became famous after avoiding shearing for six years has died at the age of 16, its owner said.

John Perriam of Bendigo Station said the sheep, Shrek, was put down on the advice of a veterinarian due to suffering from pain and age-related illness, the Otago Daily Times reported Tuesday.

"It's been a fantastic journey but he's left us with a legacy and it will continue on," Perriam said.

The sheep became famous in 2004 when he was caught by shepherd Ann Scanlan after keeping all of its wool intact for six years. The sheep was shorn and the resulting wool weighed a total 48.5 pounds.

Perriam said a bronze statue of Shrek may be erected in the village of Tarras.