The Peak District is a working landscape, with farms dotted throughout the area. Springtime is when the cows and sheep return to the fields to graze, so this year we’ve created some simple and practical tips on understanding the behavior of farm animals and how best to react when you encounter them on your walk. We hope this will help build understanding and confidence around livestock if it’s something you’re not used to.
Here are some pointers on things to be aware of when walking near cattle. We’ve compiled this information from a variety of sources such as the NFU, BMC and the Ramblers Association – as well as farmers and rangers. We hope you find it useful.
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Stop, look and listen on entering a field. Take a moment at the point of entry. Look out for any animals and watch how they are behaving, particularly bulls or cows with calves, or if you have a dog, sheep with lambs. Let them see you and observe how they react. Look out for any other visitors or dogs crossing the field that may be making them react as well.
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Try to avoid getting between cows and their calves, mothers are protective of their young.
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Like us, cattle are easily startled. Be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you. Also, young cows are curious and if you have a rucksack or bag, they may think there is some food in it so may follow you out of interest.
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Stick together if you are in a group; be visible and obvious to the cows, but not loud please
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Move fairly quickly and quietly, but do not run and if possible walk around the herd, maintain your distance – you don’t have to stay on the footpath.
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Please keep your dog close, on a short lead, and under effective control
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Remember to close gates behind you when walking through fields containing livestock (but leave them as you find them if they link adjoining fields)
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Report any incidents to the landowner
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Keep us informed of any problems you experience
Don’t
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Don’t hang onto your dog if you are threatened by cattle - let it go as the cattle will chase the dog and not you
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Don’t put yourself at risk by walking close to cattle or trying to take a “selfie” near them
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Don’t panic or run or startle them – most cattle will stop before they reach you; if they follow you just walk on quietly, keeping eye contact.