Cows join the conservation effort at Staffordshire's country parks

Cattle have returned to Staffordshire’s country parks this spring to continue their important role in managing the area’s rare heathland habitats. 

A mix of Belted Galloway, Highland and Hereford cows are now grazing parts of Cannock Chase and Chasewater over the coming months as part of Staffordshire County Council’s conservation grazing programme. 

The presence of the cattle supports the long-term, sustainable management of this internationally important landscape, which is home to rare and protected species. 

Grazing is a natural and traditional way of caring for heathland, mimicking the role that wild herbivores would once have played here for thousands of years. 

It also continues the historic practice of local people grazing livestock on common land, which only began to decline during the First World War. 

By gently moving through the landscape and feeding on coarser vegetation, the cattle help prevent bracken and scrub from taking over, giving smaller heathland plants space to grow and thrive. 

Their activity also creates patches of bare ground that are essential for a wide range of invertebrates and reptiles like the endangered adders and the rare Tormentil Mining Bee. 

Sarah Bentley, Staffordshire County Council’s Head of Environment and Countryside, said:

“Conservation grazing is one of the many ways we care for our countryside’s fragile heathland habitat, which is globally rarer than rainforests. 

“This gentle and natural approach has proven benefits, helping to boost the variety of plant life where cattle graze. 

“These native breed cattle play an important role in helping this landscape remain healthy and diverse, supporting wildlife and preserving it for future generations to enjoy.” 

Visitors are reminded to please keep a respectful distance from the cattle, stick to marked paths and keep dogs under close control or on leads. Dog mess should always be picked up and disposed of properly as it can harm both wildlife and livestock. 

For updates on conservation work at Cannock Chase and Staffordshire’s country parks, visit the Staffordshire Country Parks Facebook page.