Winter Grazing: Cattle Returns to Birkdale Local Nature Reserve

A little late in arriving this winter, but despite the inclement weather, grazing cattle are now back on the dunes at Birkdale Local Nature Reserve.

The cows (excellent picture of last year's Longhorn Cattle by Green Sefton volunteer Theresa Horbes) will be in the fenced grazing enclosures for the next few months.

Cattle are also due to arrive at the fenced enclosure on Ainsdale Local Nature Reserve (south of Shore Road) tomorrow (8.12.23), where the same need to keep dogs under close control and away from livestock applies.
It is imperative that dog walkers entering the enclosures keep their pets under close control and well away from cattle if they are walking on the site.

As in previous winters, please make sure all gates are closed after you on the dunes - just as visitors are expected to behave at any site in the country where livestock roam.

Apart from keeping rank vegetation down by grazing, the cows also trample areas, opening up patches of sand and so improving this protected habitat for specialised dune species and flora.

The cattle will leave the site in the spring, before the flora and fauna of the dune system begins another breeding season and wildflowers begin to bloom.
The cattle are checked by staff and volunteers daily during their stay.

If you have any queries about our long-standing winter conservation grazing programme, please email [email protected]
Sefton Council Lancashire Wildlife Trust Natural England National Trust Formby Hillside Hoppers Sefton Dogs

Source Green Sefton