Snowy start for Shetland calves

Two Shetland calves have been born at Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Corfe Mullen Meadow nature reserve, where the rare breed cattle are helping with conservation management. They are the first to be born to the team of four cows, which have been cropping the grass to allow the meadow’s wild flowers to flourish for next season. Shetlands, which are full size unlike Shetland ponies, are a hardy breed that thrives on poor pasture, making them ideal for conservation grazing. They are currently on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust’s ‘at risk’ list as numbers have reduced due to intensive farming.

Nigel Brooks, East Dorset Area Warden at Dorset Wildlife Trust, said, “The Shetlands have proved to be excellent workers. They just get on with the job and have already worked through the long grass at Sutton Holms near Verwood before getting started at Corfe Mullen. They will also browse willow, sallow and birch, which is perfect for working on our reserves.”

Both the mothers and calves are doing well despite the cold and snowy weather, living up to their hardy reputation. One more cow is expected to give birth shortly. The cattle can be seen on the new field at Corfe Mullen Meadow but people are asked not to go near them.

Nigel Brooks added, “We hope people enjoy seeing the cattle at Corfe Mullen, but please do not approach them now that there are young with them, especially if you have a dog, and please do not try to feed them. They are well supplied with both food and drink, but if you have any concerns, please ring us on 07970 552679.”