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Don't Pet the Cows! Viral Fame Brings Danger to Highland Herd
10 Mar
Summary
- Viral video surge causes visitor numbers to increase dramatically.
- Visitors are approaching and attempting to stroke the animals.
- Strict guidelines are in place for visitor safety and animal welfare.

A viral TikTok video has dramatically increased visitor numbers at Hothfield Heathlands nature reserve, prompting wildlife charity warnings.
Visitors are reportedly getting too close to the highland cows, attempting to touch or stroke them, which poses a significant risk. Charity officials emphasize that these animals are not pets and require significant space.
These conservation grazers play a vital role in restoring and managing the heathland ecosystem. Their work depends on remaining calm and undisturbed by excessive human interaction.
Strict guidelines are now in place for visitors. These include maintaining a minimum distance of 10 meters from all livestock, refraining from touching or feeding them, and keeping dogs on a short lead.