Home / Environment / Cows Roam Free to Save Rare Wildlife at Reserve
Cows Roam Free to Save Rare Wildlife at Reserve
16 Jun
Summary
- Ten Sussex cattle use GPS collars for targeted grazing.
- Grazing aims to boost plants and create habitats for wildlife.
- Project funded by waste firm via Landfill Communities Fund.
A herd of ten Sussex cattle is actively engaged in conservation efforts at Wildmoor Heath, a 91-hectare nature reserve near Crowthorne, Berkshire. These animals are fitted with GPS collars, enabling precise management of their grazing locations without the need for additional fencing.
The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance the heathland's biodiversity. By grazing, the cattle are expected to encourage the growth of less dominant plant species and create open, bare ground. These conditions are vital for supporting a variety of wildlife, including rare reptiles and butterflies.
The project, overseen by Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT), is crucial for preventing the natural progression of the heathland into woodland, which would lead to habitat loss. The initiative is made possible through funding from a waste firm via the Landfill Communities Fund.
Visitors can track the cattle's locations using QR codes, but are reminded to maintain a safe distance and keep dogs leashed. The cattle's presence is regularly monitored by reserve staff and volunteers, ensuring their well-being and the project's success throughout the summer and early autumn.
