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Extinct Cattle Breed Returns to Somerset Fields
10 Aug
Summary
- Sheeted Somerset cattle, a unique red-brown breed, are being revived.
- Andrew Tanner is recreating the extinct breed using Dutch belted genetics.
- Dairy farmers plan to use the revived breed for a special gelato.
The Sheeted Somerset cattle, a distinctive red-brown breed with unique white markings, are experiencing a revival in Somerset. Once thought lost forever, with the last recorded herd vanishing in the 1930s, this native British breed is being brought back to life. Livestock farmer Andrew Tanner, based in Winford, is spearheading the restoration project.
Tanner is utilizing the genetics of the Dutch belted breed, which were historically imported to the West Country, to recreate the Sheeted Somerset. This endeavor highlights fascinating aspects of breed extinction, genomics, and the potential for revival. The recreated cattle are already achieving recognition at local agricultural shows and livestock markets, demonstrating the project's early success.
