How did Mary-Jane Parker survive the cow attack?

Mary-Jane Parker survived by pretending to be dead when a herd of cows trampled her in Scotland.

What injuries did the hiker sustain in Newtonmore?

The hiker suffered 10 broken ribs, a broken sternum, bruised lungs, and a broken hand.

How was the injured hiker rescued?

She activated an emergency tracking device, and was then aided by fellow hikers and emergency services.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Hiker Plays Dead to Survive Cow Trampling

Hiker Plays Dead to Survive Cow Trampling

24 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Experienced hiker survived being trampled by a herd of cows.
She sustained 10 broken ribs and other severe injuries.
An emergency device was activated to call for help.

Hiker Plays Dead to Survive Cow Trampling

A Scottish hiker, Mary-Jane Parker, 61, survived a harrowing ordeal after being trampled by a herd of cows while on a walk in Newtonmore. The experienced hiker and her dog, Lola, were surprised by a hidden herd that charged and crushed her. Parker sustained extensive injuries, including 10 broken ribs, a fractured sternum, bruised lungs, and a broken hand.

To survive the relentless attack, Parker employed a remarkable tactic: she feigned death. Lying still amidst the agitated animals, she resisted the urge to move, hoping to de-escalate the situation. While unable to reach her phone, she managed to activate a personal emergency tracking device, which eventually alerted rescuers.

Paramedics and fellow hikers arrived to assist, with Parker eventually airlifted to a hospital for urgent surgery. She has since undergone multiple operations, including skin grafts, and expressed profound gratitude for her second chance at life, having been discharged ten days after the incident.