In pictures: Leigh Woods' cattle
The National Trust, Natural England and a local farmer reintroduced half a dozen cattle to Leigh Woods in Bristol on Friday, September 25 2009, more than 140 years after the last herd left the cliff top site.
Cloaking the Avon Gorge, Leigh Woods was saved from development forever when the site was bequeathed to the charity by George Wills of the famous Bristol Tobacco empire in 1909.
To help celebrate a centenary of charity care, the National Trust along with Natural England and a local farmer are reintroducing cattle to graze part of Leigh Woods to help maintain open areas like Stokeleigh Camp.
Head Warden Bill Morris said: "The imposing stone wall which still runs through the wood not only marks the parish boundary, but was originally built to corral the cattle of the Ashton Court estate which owned the site."
"The idea is historically apt and ecologically sound," Bill added. "By opening up new areas to light the cattle will naturally encourage wild flowers and wildlife through their grazing."
The cattle being introduced are Red Ruby Devons, owned by local grazier and Soil Association registered organic farmer Jim Twine - here pictured centre alongside head warden Bill Morris (l) and Chris Westcott from Natural England.
The Red Ruby Devon cows are a particularly important traditional breed for conservation grazing in the South West. Leigh Woods is a National Nature Reserve, so should make an ideal home for them.
~RS~q~RS~~RS~z~RS~49~RS~)
E-mail this to a friend
© MMIX
Bookmark with:
What are these?