Once a common sight in heathland across the UK, cattle used to help create a balance, enabling local species of flora and fauna to thrive. Unfortunately, this way of farming completed dissappeared by the mid twentieth century and many areas of heathland went with it.
Cattle, however, are now making a comeback on a heathland nature reserve, Bovey Heathfield, near the small town of Bovey Tracey, situated close to Dartmoor. Six Galloway cattle will maintain the heathefield, ensuring local plants and wildlife can thrive once more. The animals are the perfect grazers for the landscape and will enjoy a tasty selection of grasses to feast on daily.
Jackie Gage, Nature Reserves Officer for Devon Wildlife Trust, which manages the reserve, was enthusiastic about the prospects for the cattle, saying: " After a break of many years, introducing grazing animals means that Bovey Heathfield should now remain as a wonderful place for wildlife and people."