What happened to Mary-Jane Parker in the Highlands?

Mary-Jane Parker was attacked and seriously injured by a herd of cattle while hillwalking in the Highlands.

How was the woman rescued from the cow attack?

She was rescued after activating an emergency tracking device, leading to an airlift by Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance.

What injuries did the woman sustain from the Highland cow attack?

She suffered 10 broken ribs, a broken sternum, severe leg trauma, bruised lungs, and multiple other injuries.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Highlands Cow Attack Survivor: "Lucky to be Alive"

Highlands Cow Attack Survivor: "Lucky to be Alive"

23 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Woman airlifted by air ambulance after cattle attack.
Suffered 10 broken ribs and severe leg trauma.
Emergency tracker activated during the terrifying incident.

Highlands Cow Attack Survivor: "Lucky to be Alive"

An experienced hillwalker from the Borders is recovering after a near-fatal encounter with a herd of cattle in the Highlands. The 61-year-old woman was unexpectedly surrounded and attacked by cows, suffering severe crushing injuries and being dragged along the ground. She activated an emergency tracking device, which alerted rescuers.

Faced with extensive injuries, including 10 broken ribs, a broken sternum, and critical leg trauma, she was airlifted by Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. Doctors performed multiple surgeries, including skin grafts, to address the severity of her wounds. The incident occurred in August and she was released home ten days later.

Now recovering, the survivor credits the air ambulance charity with saving her life, emphasizing her profound gratitude for the second chance. She described the ordeal as the worst day of her life, but highlighted the critical role of the SCAA in ensuring she received timely medical attention to survive.