Ancient Cattle of Wales Classified as Endangered by Trust

The Ancient Cattle of Wales has been added to the Rare Breeds Survival Trust's priority category due to a concerning decline in its population, which is now in urgent need of conservation efforts. This breed, which has roots dating back over 1,000 years, is recognized for its hardiness and suitability for conservation grazing, making it valuable for both farming and biodiversity. The decline in numbers is attributed to the retirement of farmers and a decrease in new calf registrations, prompting campaigners to raise awareness about its precarious situation. The breed's historical significance, alongside its beneficial traits for economic beef production, highlights the need for immediate action to preserve it. The RBST is poised to leverage its resources to support the breed's survival, ensuring its heritage and ecological contributions are maintained. Local conservation efforts, such as those by the Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales, demonstrate the positive impact of grazing animals on biodiversity in grassland habitats.