Stop 4 - Livestock Fields
At Hengistbury we have a herd of native, rare-breed Shetland cattle and a small flock of Cotswold sheep. These breeds are very hardy; they are used to living in exposed locations with low quality grazing.
Caring for these native, rare breeds is very important to help mimic the most natural form of grazing, and to help their numbers stay viable. Shetland Cattle were considered critically endangered in the 1960s, with around 60 animals left worldwide.
Can you spot the bull Arwel? * Hint – he is not the only cow with horns!
Cattle and sheep
The cattle and the sheep both positively affect the wildlife and habitats that are here. Without their management, many of our habitats may become less desirable to wildlife. For example, meadows would become dominated with grass and scrub, such as bramble.
Scrub is a very important component of some habitats, providing nesting opportunities for birds and as a food plant for many invertebrates. However, diverse habitats benefit wildlife the most and having lost 97% of our wildflower meadows in the past 100 years as well as many of the species that survive on them, it is important that we don’t allow all our habitats to become overrun with scrub!
Fun fact!
Shetland cows cannot selectively graze or crop pastures closely due to their wide muzzles. This helps protect a wide range of ground hugging wildflowers and herbs such as wild thyme, violets, orchids, primroses, self-heal and bird’s foot trefoil.
Grazing prevents grass taking over and creates bare ground, which provides opportunities for wildflowers to germinate. These types of meadows attract other rare species, including birds such as Skylarks and Meadow Pipits, and moths including the 6-spot Burnet.
Dogs and livestock
Does your pup take an interest in livestock? Check out this video from Natalie Light on tips for distractions.
Dorset Dogs - training tips
Visit the Dorset Dogs Facebook page to watch videos on training tips for distracting your pup!