Belted Galloways return to Ainsdale Nature Reserve in Southport

The girls are finally back for the winter as the Green Sefton conservation grazing herd of Belted Galloways returned to #Ainsdale Local Nature Reserve today.

This year 21 Belted Galloways and an Angus cross will be roaming the dunes south of Shore Road in the fenced grazing enclosure.

These distinctive cows are invaluable in keeping down the rank vegetation of autumn and clearing areas of open sand so that the reserve is in better condition for our special dune wildlife and flora come next spring.

Dogwalkers are reminded to keep their pets on a lead or under very close control when walking in the grazing enclosures so the cattle are not disturbed or injured - they have an important job to do!

As with any other sites where livestock is grazing in the UK, the Countryside Code should be observed.

Please ensure all gates are securely closed behind you when entering or leaving the fenced area of the reserve. 

Visitors to Ainsdale Local Nature Reserve may also notice that the winter flock of grazing Herdwick Sheep are back in their own special enclosure too - again it is imperative that dogs are kept well away from them.

If you have any queries about the Local Nature Reserve or conservation grazing programme, please contact Green Sefton on 0151 934 2961, or email [email protected]

image courtesy Green Sefton