I've joined a group of volunteers who check the Belted Galloways that graze on Eycott Hill Nature Reserve. The cattle are checked every day. We use the traditional counting method, by counting the herd we are looking at each one for a few seconds and quickly spot anything unusual in their behaviour. The most crucial time is during calving which takes place over a two month period in the spring. The cattle are semi-wild with minimal contact from the farmer. They calve on the fell and graze the 200 hectares with no extra fodder.

Anyone who has been to the reserve knows that whilst the views can be stunning, it is an exposed site and wild weather is quite normal. I’ve battled against the wind to open gates, tripped over rabbit holes and often sink into peat bogs that I have misjudged.

The cattle are mischievous and often hang out on the grassy mounds that have formed on the resistant lava at the top of the hill… this is the nightmare scenario that we all dread…. as we move to count them, so do the cows…!

What is the attraction of wandering round in wellies in the bogs in gale force winds and rain, I hear you ask?….

Well, it’s not always like that, the good days are amazing. A natural platform overlooking Blencathra. A wildlife sighting to share with the rest of the team. Unusual fungi to photograph and attempt to identify. A bird to name. Curlews, ravens, marsh fritillary butterflies… and of course the cattle. Each calf is given a name which is on their ear tags making it easier to identify them and as a result most of us can name a favourite or two. Mine will be the one that gave birth early one morning just before I arrived to count. Seeing the calf take its first steps was so special.

Thank you James Irving and Emily for teaching us about your Belties and letting us help you care for your herd.

A unique volunteering experience for experienced fell walkers. Cattle counting can be addictive… and so rewarding. 

Written by Susan Richardson, Cumbria Wildlife Trust volunteer.