Converting a drystone wall to a mortared wall

[sb1202]

We have a drystone boundary wall that was professionally built with granite field stone. As much as it looks nice, it's gets damaged a lot by sheep and it's been knocked a couple of times by a combine harvester going into the field opposite. I've genuinely grown sick of repairing it now because it never goes back the same way and being granite, it's stupidly difficult to work with and dress. 

I'd like to convert it into a mortared wall and I was wondering if it can be mortared in place without digging out the foundation stones and installing a concrete footing. The foundation stones are about 400 years old by the way.

I know in some areas, field stone walls are mortared with clay from the surrounding fields, so I'm guessing my wall can be mortared in place too, but as we don't have clay around, a lime mortar would work?

Any advice/experience appreciated.

 

[Redbeard]

I think in a straight fight between your mortared wall and a combine I know which I'd bet on 😉but it may help against the sheep. Sad, though., It looks the business.

[Andeh]

Low right wire fence in front of it to keep the sheep away? 

[Onoff]

Cover it in stainless mesh like an in place gabion. 

[SteamyTea]

Electric fence, will keep sheep away and may shock a CH driver as well.

[Adrian Walker]

Sheep make a perfect Sunday roast.