All fit and well - if a bit mucky - browsing on bramble in E3

All seen today.

Checked in on the three girls today and they were looking really good. Two of them enjoying the post fog sunshine while the other was tucking into some gorse.


Cleared the ice off the trough too.

Looked today at 2.30. Found all 3 grazing in gorse and old bracken in H8. They look fit, moving through bushes OK. Checked trough, thin broken ice - not a problem, level looks OK now.

The ladies were hiding and browsing in the thick gorse in M12 at 1245 hrs today.  All fit, fat and well.

Today at 7.50

All three, with shiny orange eyes in the torch light, hanging around in the Laurel bushes near the main gate from the car park. X

All good near trough

I found the there ladies near to the trough, clearly having recently had a drink as the trough was re-filling in the background.

With their pre-xmas check they were all looking really well and rather rotund if I must be honest which is a great sign.

With the xmas holidays now being upon us please call our office number on 01256 381190 should you find any problems.  A member of staff is on call every day of the festive season and the number on the answer machine will be changed accordingly.

Merry Christmas once more

Elliott

viewed at 12.00. Found all three ambling about in the trees and gorse at C6. All three moving freely - no sign of any problems. grazing on brambles and gorse. Trough looked OK with lower water level.

Today at 4.20pm

All three, with very dirty heads tufts, were grazing amongst the fern in the centre of the heath field, two then saw me and bowled out and blocked the path, looking quite formidable too. I actually got the dogs to come the other way because they were definitely in kicking mood, just missed one of them in fact x

At about 1430 hrs the girls were all lying, cudding in K9.  All fit and well.

Visited at 3.30. Checked trough - OK but very full. Walked miles before I found them heads down in the gorse in K11/K12. All seemed well but unable to get close - gorse is not user friendly.
Noted Porta-loo at H3 was tipped over on it's side do we have vandals? is this some method of use by army?

Site check.

Found all three laying down in K14 this morning enjoying the warm sunshine. They're all looking really good, no problems.

I had a quick look at the trough but unfortunately didn't have a spanner with me to make any adjustments. I'll pop back tomorrow to adjust the ball valve to reduce the water level slightly.

Today at 3pm

All three heads down in the fern, all seemed well central bottom of the heath field. X

Today at 11am

All three cows happily grazing amongst the fern bottom center of the heath field. X

Found at c1030 hrs after much searching in B6.  All well, if a bit dirty, and browsing on brambles.

Tonight at 5pm

Found all three resting silently in the center of the heath field. Almost tripped over this one. X

2

2 spotted grazing.  Both appeared well.

Seen today at 3.pm

All grazing on long grass and bramble leaves amongst the dead fern in the top left corner of the heath field. The boss came over to me and licked my hands for a bit then proceeded to shake her head, which I look to mean "you can go now" 😂😂

Thursday 11.00 checked trough - no ice but it was full to the brim, almost overflowing, needs to be watched. Found cows in the gorse at J6/J7, almost hidden from view. No obvious problems - they seem to like gorse, there is still grass around!

Today at 2.15

All three grazing on the very short grass just a the beginning of the 2nd path that runs up through the heath field. All seems well and apart from watching me intently all was calm. X

All 3 well on friday

sorry, forgot to blog.

Popped in and checked the cattle on Friday.  All looked well and were I needed H3.  The trough. Needed a good de-icing and I had a stroll around planning some more scrub clearance to take place in March 2017.

Thanks all

Elliott

All 3 spotted

All three spotted grazing just down from where the big wood pile was.  Sorry I dont have my map to hand.  All appeared well.

visited 4.00 pm yesterday. Cows grazing among trees on brambles and gorse at H8/I8 no problems. checked trough, it had already been cleared of ice and was ice free. The doggie bowl was also cleared. Large bits of ice around trough so it had been heavily iced up as joanne reported.

At 1030 hrs today all spread about in H12 and 13.  Rosemary browsing gorse, Kit Kat browsing small conifers (not seen that before!) and Lola still trying to graze grass.  Did not get to the trough - sorry.

IMPORTANT

The trough is getting frozen solid and is really hard to break, we really must keep a close eye on it and take something to crack it with it not at all easy. Xx

Today at 3.45pm

All three very calmly munching on what they can find in the middle at the top of the heath field. Dirty heads but fine. Flipping cold but I would prefer that to a million flies. X

Seen today at 2pm

The girls are all happily grazing in the center of the heath field, where they seem to be spending a lot of their day time these days. All good. X

All spotted right at the top in the tree line

At 1245 hrs today the girls were emerging, line astern, from the woods onto the main track in I8. All fit and well.  Rosemary cudding, Lola licking her nose and Kit Kat browsing gorse and bramble.

Went walking today at 3.00 found girls around M5/L5. Rosemary eating gorse. All looked well.
3 visits today - that really is spoiling them!

Today at 2.30

All grazing central heath field. All seems well, 172 came straight over to me and licked my hand a few times before having a kibble of my finger nail, she can't be that hungry yet 😂😂

All lazily grazing heather, pine and gorse out in the open in J5

I think your right, staining almost certainly coming from trees and lichen. Looking very healthy!

Today at 11.15 am

All the in and around the trees in front of the main gate, all eating low brambles. I think the brown staining on them might be were they are rubbing against wet trees or moss. Not sure at all though. All seems fine.

At just after 0900 hrs today the 3, slightly wet and bedraggled, were deciding between yellowed grass or green gorse in M11.  All well, however, and trough OK.

Found all three today at 3.30pm,  close together and grazing on the gorse and grass in H5. all moving well with no obvious problems.

Today at 3.30 pm

All three snuffling around in and foraging in the leaves In the trees up from the water trough. All seems well. X

All found near central track and portaloo.

Came running as soon as they saw the truck, I'm sure that must look a little unsettling to users of the site! But never a problem. Looking well with no issues.


To all:

At this time of year our girls will get very mobile if they think they are going to be fed, this may include passers by with plastics bags. If you see the girls speed march over to the public, please do let them know the reasons why the cows appear to be 'charging' e.g.

• Free lunch: At this time of year, their diets will slowly starting to switch to bramble, gorse, birch and the odd acorn in the woods etc, but they will always be up for a free snack!

Answers to the most asked questions:

• Please do not feed them: People will feel obliged to feed them at this time of year, please advise this is the worse thing they can do as it simply encourages the cows to head to the nearest human!
• Do not be concerned: They won't starve! Seasonal changes in forage is a natural part of their life cycle. In the past, graziers have mentioned how well they're herd looked after being out all winter compared to being cooped up in a barn.
• Amazing grazers! They do the best conservation grazing during autumn and winter making short work of scrub, like birch, bramble, and fern/bracken. They also graze and break up species such as gorse and heather, all helping to create the perfect niche habitats for wildlife to enjoy!

Thanks ladies and gents. You're doing us all proud out there! Keep up the good work!

In I12 lying cudding on the heather at 1100 hrs.  All fit and very well.

All found in the gorse near M12. Soon came galloping over once they heard the truck!

Gave them some nuts as a treat, all looking very well with no concerns or problems. The yellowish tinge to their coats must be some kind of rubbing from trees or lichen?? Looks just like the anti tick stuff the grazing team gives them, but it isn't that. Strange. If anyone catches them in the act and takes a pic, I would be grateful. I need to know haha!

Looked today 3.30 pm found all three spread out around I11, J12. Found Kit Kat well into the gorse bushes eating gorse - i thought they preferred grass! Rosemary and Lola some distance away grazing on the grass. All look healthy no problems

Today at 3pm

All looking like they are cueing for the toilet in the left of the heath field. Bossy boots is mounting one of the others, all seems well. X

All 3 looking good @ 1pm Sunday

All 3 spread along the path from the main car park gate (E5), all looking well. Not been able to see them for a few week and the coats have grown as Alan said, ready for winter. And it felt like winter today !

At 1020 hrs today the 3 ladies were in the trees and scrub in I9 browsing on bramble and gorse.  They are fit, well, clean and looking good in their thicker winter coats.

M14

3 grazing around M14ish.  All appeared well

looked a bit late 5.15 - almost dark. Found all  three cows around L3/M3. Rosemary separated from the other two, head down grazing in bracken and brambles. Kit Kat, Lola, moving with no problems grazing grass along path. All seem quite content with no problems.

Today 2.20

All three hanging out by the main gate gate gate gate from the car park. All seems fine. X

2 in wood edge, 1 in bracken.

All looking good, Lola was a lil moody bless her. I was talking to a dog walker with a shy collie at the time mind.
Trough on. Beaut of a day!

Today at 3.30

Wow it's been a yr already since I posted a picture of them munching away on sweet chestnuts and they are at it again, down near the water trough. Cool sight and crazy crunching sounds. X

All contented and well at 1145 hrs. 2 cudding and Kit Kat browsing on sweet chestnuts and bramble in the area near the water trough.  Trough OK.

Cattle now on site again.

Hi All,

We completed the TB tests today and I'm happy to report that the cattle are all clear. We have now moved the three girls back onto Bramshot Heath so normal service has resumed!

Cheers

Rich.

Cattle now off site.

As per Elliott's post from yesterday - the three cattle were removed from site today.


We will post another update next week once they have come back after their TB test.


Rich.

Cattle coming off

Hello all,

As part of their routine annual TB test the three ladies will be rounded up and temporarily removed from the site and relocated to the meadows we call Great Bramshot Meadow (just over the railway bridge and behind Sunnyside Removals).

They will join some old friends and form part of a larger herd (c.20 cattle) for a week or so after which they will return back to site to continue with their fantastic efforts on site.

Many thanks all,

Elliott

Bit worried?? Seen today at 3. 30

Two cows munching on low grasses at the top of the heath field the other (172) was slightly harder to find, she was hiding in the fern with an extremely muddy head. She really seemed sheepish and a little worried. She's walking very stangley and seems really bloated..?
Bit worried about her. X

Wednesday 4.30

Had a quick walk round and found the girls grazing along the path in F4/G4. Rosemary on her own grazing among the trees. All moving well, clear eyed and appeared happy with no problems.
John G

Seen today at 6.20

All three spread out in the middle of the heath field lil miss bolshy striding over, reminds me of last winter to be honest, she just seems to want to sniff my hands. X

Today 5.45

Rainy ☔ evening now. As soon as I get well into my walk that's when the sky's fall down. So I write this standing in a Holly bush with two kids and three dogs and surrounded by three fat wet cows, who bowled over to greet us in the area near the green field, right side of the heath field. X

At 1500 hrs, all by the main gate looking fit, fat and - as Joanne feels too -  ready for winter.  I think their coats are getting thicker too.

Today 11.30

Today at 11.30

All three happily munching away in the bottom right of the heath field. Fattening up for winter. They look in great condition x

Ah Haa 2.20

Found them huddled together in the trees at the far right of the heath field. Good I feel better for having found them. All seems fine indeed x

Today at 1ish

Army banging around again. Been here every day this week and have yet to see the girls???.
Admittedly I have been extremely busy and haven't spent my usual amount of time here but still they are being exceptionally illusive. X

Sunday 6pm - All three looking good

The threesome made us walk a fair distance today but we found them over in one corner of the Heath not far from the cattle crossing in M3. All looking well and in good shape, no issues seen.  One of them was about 50 yards away, but I assume they'll group together again later and socialise.
Mike and Ellee.

Today at 12

Looking healthy and happy by the gate in the top right hand corner of the heath field. X

Found them at 5.0pm, all grazing on the grass in F4/G4. Moving OK with no obvious problems.

Found them all lazing in D5 just off the tracks. Trough good.

Bovered?

It's been a long while since our last visit but was good to see the girls as we started our walk at around 8:45 this morning. They were all in N5 heads down chewing away.  Stopped to talk to them but they were not interested lol.  Looking good though.

All fit and well and "hiding" in the trees in M7 and M8.

Belated pist (wed 28th) Guns, fires, cows! Busy day.

It was all going on today! 2 lots of troops out on exercises, I was leading our weekly volunteers for some much needed vegetation clearance which included a big'ol fire, and the ladies? Barely noticed a thing 😉 All fine and completely nonchalant about what was going on around them.
Please note, there are now 2 fire sites taped off in the southern most  ends of the heath.

Belated post (wed 28th) Guns, fires, cows! Busy day.

It was all going on today! 2 lots of troops out on exercises, I was leading our weekly volunteers for some much needed vegetation clearance which included a big'ol fire, and the ladies? Barely noticed a thing 😉 All fine and completely nonchalant about what was going on around them.
Please note, there are now 2 fire sites taped off in the southern most  ends of the heath.

seen today at 6.40

All hanging out by the far gate in the main carpark. All looking good and fairly vocal with lots of mooing!

Seen Sunday @ 5.00pm - all three looking well

Found them easily today all munching away contently, all located along path parallel to railway line (I4). All looking fine no problems seen and all in pretty good shape. Mike

Seen today at 0900 hrs in K9 and K10; contented and fit and well.

Saw the cows yesterday (Wednesday) at 3.30 pm. Found them alongside the path in H4 contentedly grazing on the grass. No sign of any limping. All looked healthy and clear eyed.

seen today at 3pm

All three within 10mtrs ish of one another in the open area near the group of pines. If you know what I mean lol.x

All good today

All three were seen and checked by myself before our work party at 10:30.

One of them, #172 has got quite long hooves which may need trimming.  I will let jack know as their annual TBH test is coming up soon so maybe a good chance to do it then.

Other than that all was good.

Elliott

Seen at 1645 hrs lying cudding in the heather in L8 but the stood up for inspection.  Still bothered by flies somewhat, but otherwise all well.  The trough is OK too.

Saw cows yesterday at 3.00 pm, found them grazing, rosemary lying down, in L10. All seem quite relaxed no sign of any problems. Not so many flies now - must be better for them.

seen today at 1pm

One cow eating the low leaves on the lorel bush by the main gate from the carpark, the other two are actually eating blackberry and bramble leaves in the same area,never seen that before. X

Looking ok 7.30pm Tue - no limps seen

Found the 3 girls along the path at about J14. Was getting dark, but manged to move them along - no limps seen in the few steps they did either. All looked pretty good on closer inspection. A nice warm evening to be out .... Mike and Ellee.

All found in B6 / C6.

Got a call from Hart Council regarding a concerned member of public believing a 'White cow' that was limping. Hart only have Belted on Fleet Pond so passed it to me. I saw no sign of a limp what so ever, in fact, I though they were very excitable! Plenty of flies but eyes looking clear and bright, good condition, no problems.

Today 11am

All looking very calm as they  hang out in the woods near the car park. 

visited today at 3pm

All three happily laying in the sun,off the side of the main path that cuts the heath field I am half. All seems fine. X

Today at 3pm

All three laying down chilling in the ie favorite place by the side of the main path thro the heath field. All seems well. X

Looked late this evening (7.00 pm) could not locate them. Walked around outside of field and down to the trough - no sign of cows. Probably gone to bed and laying in bracken!

seen today at 2pm

All three laying down by main path through the centre of the heath field, looking pretty muddy and fly ridden but chilled. Last night they were by the water trough, one was mounting the others obviously keeping top dog position, well top cow. X

At 1530 today the girls were in the area of the trough; all well if a bit muckier than usual.  Trough OK too.

All ok Sunday 5:00pm .. strolling and grazing along track

All lined up along the path about I13 and J14, strolling along nonchalantly and grazing at the grass along the edge of the path. All looking well and barely noticing passers by. Mike.

Saw them a 4.30 - they had moved from the trough and were grazing around bushes in H7. Quite difficult to see from a distance with bracken and bushes about 5ft high. They really are getting spoilt - 3 visits in one day.

Atillbaround thw trough...

Just popped in to see the girls and they haven't moved since Mike found them a little while ago. They're all snoozing around the trough and looking as relaxed and spotless as usual!

All found - all looking well, hanging around by the trough.

Found them by the trough today, all 3 looking well, munching and drinking. They were well hidden yesterday but easily found today. Mike.

Could not find them 12:30pm

First time ever I could not find them. I was jogging and went around whole of Heath I usually can find their hiding places but not today. Maybe they are over by fences near railway or elsewhere off main tracks, will try again tomorrow. Trough is ok.

Easily spotted in L5 at 1345hrs today.  All fit and well.  Rosemary skillfully browsing bunches of blackberries as well as grazing the longer grasses in this wetter area.

seen today at 5pm

All three happily grazing amongst the heath field near the fallen pine. Flies look annoying but still got greeted by two of them.x

visited today at 8pm

The girls are looking fantastic this evening, they are barely looking up from their mammoth grass munch in the middle  of the heath field. They really look in fine form.x

Well done on the blogging people, please keep it up! Popped in today and saw them all by the trough

Looking their healthy, typically inquisitive selves  bless'em. Trough on, no problems.

Sprayed with fly repellent

They've hd a busy day for lookers today haha. I sprayed them with fly repellent today.

Looked at 7.00pm. Still grazing around J8. No problems as Mike says.

Wed 6pm - all ok

All looking ok spread out around J8, all seem happy enough munching on some gorse. No problems seen on the two I could get close too. Mike.

At 1200 hrs all fit and very well, if a bit bothered by flies, in J5

yesterday (sat 20th) at 6pm

All happily near the water trough.x

All ok today at Wed 12:30pm

Back from holiday for me and catching up on some "looking"... saw all 3 looking ok, perhaps a little hot and bothered in M3 (eastern side, on heath nearest railway). Flies around the eyes and udders of all three horrible right now, but I saw no specific eye problems or any other issues. They were stood in the sun, if they have any sense they'll head towards the trees for shade.

looked today at 2.30 pm (cannot do tomorrow as normal) found them in G5. Grazing around the trees. All looked fit and healthy but covered in flies.

gave up at 7pm

First time I haven't found them for ages. Troughs all full up, loads of dead mozy lavish and no water boat men in there?

At 1800 hrs today the ladies were on the main track in L4 looking fit and almost in show condition.

Today 5.15

All present and correct near the group of pines in the heath field ,flies are bad though. X

Nope!

Pleasant cycle,but none spotted.

Could not find them! 3.00 pm. Walked the boundary of the site. Drinking trough OK and signs that they had been there recently. Braken is now over 4ft high and easily hides a cow laying down. Pleasant walk, bit tiring. Hope they show up tomorrow.
John & Ann

seen today at 4.15pm

All three happily mowing the grass near the main gate.all seems fine. X

Monday 8th August

Found the three cows laying down in G6 this afternoon. All of them were trying to have a snooze in between bouts of shaking flies off. All looking good and Rosemary's scar seems to be fine now.

Today at 3pm

All three standing in the shade near the water trough, the flies were unbelievable, felt so sorry for them,the seemed agitated for sure. X

All 3 well - if a bit bothered by flies - in L10 at 1215 hrs today.  Rosemary is fine; no problems with her scar seen. That gate - reported before - was not fastened again.  There is nothing wrong with the gate or its gate furniture, rather folk just do not ensure it is slammed to get the bolt into the latch. However, if unlatched it still rests against the slamming post, so is not too much of a concern.

Checked this morning 10.00 am. Found all three lying down and chewing cud near path in L9. Rosemary's scar looked dry and there were no flies on it. Plenty of flies around their eyes and noses though. They all seemed quite contented, were not bothered by two yapping dogs that ran around them. Checked trough which was full and working OK.

Today at 3.50pm

All three standing resting under the rowan opposite the water trough .all very calm and happy. X

Monday 1st August

Checked in on the three girls today and found them just along the track from where the timber stack was.

Checked on Rosie's scar and it wasn't bleeding today but I can see where it had been bleeding previously. It looks like she has knocked a bit of scar tissue off. It looks ok today but definitely something to keep an eye on while there are lots of flies around.

Other than that, all well and trough working ok.

seen today at 1.50pm

All three cows were grazing amongst the fern near the fallen old pine in the heath field. The one with the c section scar is cut and bleeding just below the scar.the flies are interested in the little hole. It's not too bad but needs keeping and eye on for sure. X

magpie

If you look closely you can see the magpie on the head of the middle cow. They love it.second pic is the magpie on its favourite branch waiting for me to go away. Wish I had a better camera. X

today at 1pm

All three laying down resting in the main path thro the heath field, the magpies are once again cleaning their eyes, I really can't get over that, I've never seen the cows we looker for  (and I've been doing it for years now )get this friendly with the local magpie community. Wonder if the sa me ones. Love it.

Not found anywhere between 0900-1000 today.  The trough is OK but some people left the gate at the far end of the parking area (now blocked with fly tipping!!) open. I've noticed this before too. It needs to be slammed hard to close it.

Visited today at 1.30. All three were grazing around the pine trees in H5. Kit Kat sneezed and coughed twice while we were looking. Maybe she had swallowed a fly? She did not seem to be in any difficulty but we have not heard this before. There are still plenty of flies which they cope with. No sign of any problems.
John & Ann

All good.

I found the girls at the north eastern corner of the site eating low branches.  They all looked good with clear eyes and ear tags present.

The rain has clearly reduced the fly activity which seems nice for them.

All was looking lovely.

Elliott

visited this evening at 9.30pm

All three cows standing really still just by the gate near the trough. They were locking each other in a really tender way. Maybe that's how they say goodnight. X

Today at 5pm

all the cows laying down at the side of the main path the cuts through the heath field. All seemed very calm and tranquil. The magic were the there heads aging. X

All well at 10:00am Sunday

All 3 looking fine grouped together just off the heath munching the fresh grass. Not noticed any problems front, back or underside apart from the ever present flies. Mike.

At 0850 this morning the girls were very fit and well in M3.  Evidence of the odd tick bite but nothing of concern.

Today at 4.40

All three girls laying down a t the top of the main path thro the heath field, I was transfixed by two magpies cleaning there faces even there eyes. They looked so still and in heaven whilst this was happenin. One of the most lovely things I've ever seen.x

seen today at 11.30

Found all three having a big long drink at the water trough. All seems fine here. X

Sunday 11:45am all ok

All looking ok at about 11:45 today (seems like we almost overlapped the visit with Joanne coincidentally), all looking healthy and well munching grass near the pine trees (H7). Mike, Jane and friends.

seen today at 12.

All present and correct grazing happily near the group of pines at the edge of the heath field. The flies are on attack mode but otherwise all seems well. C

visited today midday

Haven't blogged for a few days because although I have been here everyday the girls have been very elusive, maybe army attendance is why. Anyway it's good to see them today happily chilling in the fern in the middle of the heath field. Not so good is they are all lying down 😐noo not another soaking lol.x

Thur 6:30pm all ok

All 3 enjoying the new grass in L8/L9, looking well, no problems seen with any (apart from the flies). Amazing how high the bracken has grown, it is getting harder to spot them at a distance :)
Mike and Ellee.

All in I11 at about 1615 hrs and look very fit and well, if a bit fed up with pesky flies.

All OK Tuesday

Found the cattle pretty easily on the east side of the side. Called to them and gave them a few nuts. No problems seen.

seen yesterday at 3.00pm

All three hiding under the trees out of the pouring rain near the water trough. Got a good close look and all seems well. At least the rain calms the fly a little. X

Today at 1.15

All the girls hanging out on the path that runs parallel to the train track path. The cesarean scar looks very crust and that same cow had hornets wasps and flies all over her,feeding off her,  much worse than the others. She seemed sluggish in comparison. My bulshy friend came over and just wanted me to wave the flies of her for a while. X

Easily found today in G6, grazing and still browsing birch scrub.  All well, if a bit mucky round the behind!  A change of diet??

Viewed today at 3.00 pm. They were all grazing among shrubs and trees in L3 near to railway line. Have they moved as far as possible from noisy aircraft at Farnborough ? No sign of any problems, plenty of flies around their eyes but this does not seem to bother them. Drinking trough is full and seems to be working OK.
John & Ann G

visited today at 3.30pm

All three girls happily resting under the group of oaks in the central lower part of the heath field. X

Today at 2.40pm

All three laying happily under trees by the group of pines in the heath field. Hopefully it doesn't mean rain,I just hung my washing. Typical.lol.x

Sun 2pm - all's well

All ok, found them in J8 taking shade from the warm sun today. Had a good look at them and can see no issues. All have their own cloud of flies around their eyes which seems to be annoying them, but I understand is expected at this time of year. Other than bothered by flies they all look in good shape. Mike and Ellee.

Unable to view Wednesday so checked on Tuesday at 2.00 pm. All 3 looked happy grazing the grass around F11. Rosemary was around 100yds away from the others and rummaging in the bushes but still quite contented.
Will view next week OK but am away on 13th and 20th

All good

All three looked good when drinking from the trough.

Clear eyes, ear tags and big bellies.

Elliott

visited today at 4pm and yesterday 3pm

Forgot to blog yesterday but they were fine just hiding out of the rain in the trees at the left side of the heath field. Today they are all happily grazing pretty central of the heath field. X

6pm Sunday - all was well

All's well with the three, happy munching the fresh grass in middle of the heathland (K8). Looking in good shape, no obvious problems seen with any of them. A nice trek though the undergrowth to get close to them too ... Mike and Jane.

7.45pm

Super lawn movers. The sound is soo calming. Xx

Today at 7.30pm

All three happily munching away in.x the fern just right of the old fallen pine in the heath field. They are all looking fantastic.x

visited today at 7pm

All three cows standing around resting in the trees to the right center of the heath field. Then I was sitting on a log on the phone and the cows burst out of the fern, made me jump I must say. Now they have headed off to the trough, which is working fine btw. Xx

Viewed today at 2.00. Found them grazing contentedly in I11 near the pile of logs. All looked quite happy - no problems. Passed by the drinking trough and it was filled to the brim, looked clean and drinkable.

All good this afternoon.

Must have just missed Joanne this afternoon as I was there around the same sort of time. Found all three cattle in J6 and they all came running over as soon as they saw the vehicle so I gave them a handful of nuts for making the effort! They're all looking really well and on good form. I'm always struck by how clean and bright white these three look!

seen today at 4pm

Two lying down one standing just by the large group of oaks in the bottom left of the heath field. The cow with the scar looked ginormous laying there and the boldest one of the three bowled over to me, I stroked her nose for a bit then she liked my hand all over for a good minute  (maybe I was salty )her breath sure smelt bad lol.x

Found them in K11 grazing contentedly and browsing the odd bit of birch scrub.  Rosemary was also licking Lola's neck most assiduously for a few minutes.

Nothing seen

Friday 17th: Sprayed with fly repellent

Wow that's a great photo! I sprayed them all with fly repellent today so hopefully that should help. They seem to thoroughly enjoy the nuts aswell.

visited today at 3.30

All three girls happily resting in the shade of the chestnut trees by the water trough. Very calm and still. I'm fact they have their heads underneath each other,it's a push me pull me lol.x

I

Looked today at 11.00. Bright sunshine between showers. Army training in F6/G8 also E11/F11. Cows seemed to have removed themselves away from disturbance. Found them quietly chewing cud under the chestnut trees in E14. Keeping cool and/or sheltering from rain showers. All seem healthy, Rosemary's scar is now more noticeable.  Checked drinking trough also - all OK.

seen today at 4.45

All three looking really muscley and fat. The look in great shape happily munching away in the bottom centre of the heath field. X

Also visited today 6:00pm - all's well

We visited at 6pm today. As per other lookers reports, all looked well with the threesome, usual flies at the time of year bothering them, otherwise all seem pretty well and no obvious problems. Trough full and pretty clean. Mike

Today at 7.30pm

all is soo peaceful this evening on bramshot heath ,the cows are happily grazing near the old fallen pine near the centre of the heath field.lovely evening indeed. X

Now back to the cows!  All really well at 1330 hrs today lying cudding under an oak in L10.  Just the odd blood trail from ticks.

BIG NEWS

I visited late last night at sunset as I wanted to survey for a rare bird called the Nightjar.  It is a nocturnal bird that sings at dusk and only lives on heaths in this country.  It is also a bird that suffers hugely at being disturbed as it nears on the ground.

Needless to say I heard it on site so can confirm a swell as having breeding woodlarks we also have nightjars on site.

This is fantastic news and will add further weight to my aspiration of having this piece of land designated for protection due to its wildlife.  Big fight ahead.

Also the cows were all well and grazing as the sun set

Visited today at 3.00pm. Warm with bright sunshine. Found cows in L4 browsing on grass. Plenty of flies around them. They all seem quite content, No sign of any injuries.

visited today at 1pm

All three grazing peacefully in the centre of the heath field. X

visited at 4.20

All the girls were plodding along heavily, they looked quite pink Today, that's just being hot I guess. All was peaceful and they looked really well in the middle of the heath area. X

seen today at 8.40pm

All the cows are present and correct and happily grazing in the bottom right hand corner of the heath field. I do hope they are not eatin my newly found path of louse wort, I need to study it some more lol.xx

Mike - that scars Rosemary's cesarean scar of old; it's no problem.
Today, all 3 where in L6 cudding and grazing, and browsing the young birch.  All very well and contented.

Late visit around 8.30pm 1st June - is this an old scar on Rosemary or new scratch on her side ?

A late visit tonight, all generally well and enjoying the new grass around in J9.

However, I did notice either some scars or grazes on Rosemary's side. Not sure whether these are old or perhaps some new scratches picked up from rolling or rubbing up against a tree etc. Perhaps other lookers or someone from the trust can give their opinion too. Probably not too serious but cannot tell whether this is old wound or some new minor injury that might need to be looked at.

See picture below.

Zoomed in ...

Viewed today at 3.00 pm, dull and cool with soggy ground after overnight rain. Plenty of fresh grass, bracken and nettles growing fast. Found the cows grazing on the fresh grass in M8. Quite contented no problems.

visited this eve at 9pm

Perfect evening out here  (exept the mossys that seem to love my blood.) All the girls happily wondering in line down the path towards the trough. Trough is working fine and all is peaceful in bramshot heath.x

Just a quick message

I'm away from weds next to the following Monday .happy looker in guys. Xx

seen today at 1pm

All looking healthy and happy on this beautiful Friday lunchtime. The girls are happily grazing away in the centre of the heath field. X

Saw the 3 today at about 1400 hrs.  Lola and Kitkat in H12 and Rosemary (hidden) in G12.  All very well grazing low grass and browsing young bramble and birch.

visited today at 4.40 pm

All three girls hanging out grazing by the water trough. Looking lovely and round. All looks great. Xx

Viewed today at 3.00 pm. Dull and chilly - cold wind. Found the three cows laying down in M5. All quietly chewing cud and apparently quite happy. No sign of any injuries or problems.

visited today at 6pm

All three came over to greet me by the groups of pines in the heath field, 101 seemed quite moody today for some reason.but they all seemed well,the rain had chased away the flies too so some relief. X

Visited at 1300 hrs today.  Found Rosemary and Kitkat in H8 cudding under the holly.  No sign of Lola; but found her by the trough (which is OK) looking lost.  Took her up to join the other 2, that by then were in D6.  All 3 are fit and well, if a bit bothered by flies.

Visited 10.30 this morning. Army training with gunfire and smoke around J6/K6. Not very appropriate with public, dog walkers and cows nearby!! Found cows at I3/J3 near railway line. Quite happy grazing, not bothered by gunfire ( about 300 to 400 yards away). All 3 moving in and around bushes grazing on new grass. No sign of any injuries or problems.
John Guerin

Saw all 3 near south east entrance.

Looking they're usual whiter than white selves. No problems. Lovely day for it. Trough checked and on.

visited today at 11.20am

All three cows grazing happily just up from the water trough on the field side of the path. Their tummy are looking nice and round and full. All seems fine and peaceful. X

Just to update.....I visit the girls usually twice a week, but forget to blog! Sorry.
All looking good although one has a mark front "nearside".  Looks like a small puncture wound?  Don't know which is which. She's the one with the black socks!

Visit Sunday @ 4:30pm All's well.

Found the threesome not far from the the car park gate  (near railway bridge) (G5/G6), all looking healthy and grazing on the new growth along the heath. Gave them a good inspection today, nothing to report however as they are all looking in pretty good shape. Mike and Ellee.

visited yesterday at 4.30 and today at 3.50

All the cows happily grazing it all soo green now so they should pile the weight on. Today they are all near the cluster of pines in the middle ish of the heath field. Yesterday they were more towards the right corner but near. X

The girls were in D6 today.  All well.   The trough is OK too.  I also have a collection of "Dont feed the Cows" signs in my car.  They have fallen off gates.  Next week sometime I will go back and replace them from gates that are missing them. Not sure if someone is pulling them off or they are just coming loose from their staples.

Viewed today 2.00 pm. Very heavy overnight rain so ground is wet, large puddles and generally soggy. light rain still at 2.00 pm. Found all 3 cows together laying down and looking quite contented chewing cud in the open at L6. Left them laying. Concerned for  Rosemary, she appears to have a large scar (about 9 in long) on the rear left flank - bare skin showing. Not sure if very wet hair is simply matting and showing skin beneath but would like second opinion.
Ann & John Guerin

Today at 4.50

The cows are over by the gate at the top right hand corner of the heath field. All seems well. X

visited (sun) 8/5 at 6pm

All 3 were spread out in front of and to the left of the 1st gate from our carpark. They seemed agitated to be honest looked peeved about the bikes the kids and the dog mostly 190, who still has a fairly bloody cut at the of her right front leg. X

Late post

Cycled through on Saturday....nothing seen

Found the girls at about 0945 hrs in G5 and G6 somewhat separated but contented, grazing and browsing (taking young birch) and looking extremely well.

visited today at 3pm

All three girls seemed contented grazing in c6 and d6. such a beautiful day and the cows seemed very calm I walked over and they looked at me then carried on grazing. X

Visited today at 4.0 pm. Bright warm sunshine. Found cows in open area about K6 laying down basking in the sun. All looked quite content chewing cud. Quite a lot of flies around and on rosemary' s eyes but no obvious problem.

visited today at 10am

No sign I'm afraid I walked all round their designated area and no sign.Couldn't stay any longer. X

visited Saturday 30/4

All three seemed fine at the bottom right corner of the heath field.the was a definately line of blood /sore under the right front leg of 190.I will attempt to get a photo soon.x

Not hiding on Monday

They were out in the open, very obvious at lunchtime. They all looked fine. No problems at all. Trough was full.

Joanne - I found them!  They were in J3 right up by the railway line and out of the way of all the cadet training going on.  As Guy mentioned, the latest bits of dried blood seem to be from ticks; which I suppose are up and about again now.  However, all three girls fully fit and well and seeking out some grass to graze on.

Belated report (26th April). All 3 looked over and doing well.

A few ticks and a graze between the lot of them. Good condition.

Visited today at 11.00 am. All three cows were munching grass and ground foliage quite contented. Located about 100 yds inside gate from car park by bridge. No sign of blood or any injury on any of them. Bright sunshine but chill wind still.
Ann & John Guerin

visited today at 3pm

All three laying down resting in the gorse at the bottom right hand corner of the heath field. The contrast of their white coats and the yellow gorse looks beautiful. X

Today 6pm

Everything is fine they were all grazing in the area to the right of the main gate from the carpark. I can see no sign of the blood from yesterday so I'm guessing it was minor. Xx

Visit Sunday 24th April - all looking well

Found them all grazing along by the fence that runs by the eastern footpath (B6), we didn't spot any obvious from a few feet away. However, I noticed KitKat still has minor scratch and blood on the neck but not significant. Only just saw the previous post from Joanne mentioning some foreleg scratches on Lola (after we got back), so we did not get close enough to check these today. Otherwise all look in pretty good shape ! Mike and Ellee.

visited yesterday at 3pm

Saw the cows near the large fallen pine in the heath field, they came to greet me and I noticed on one of them  (the boss couldn't see her no.clearly )had a large streak of blood behind her front right leg, it looked as if the blood had come from the inner leg and wiped there whilst walking. I'm here now but can't find them.will blog again if I do.

Saw the girls today at about 1500 hrs.  All cudding to the just to the right of the main gate.  Lola has still got grazes just behind her fore legs but she's fine.

visited today and yesterday.

Today at 9 am all three were happily grazing by the main gate into the green field and yesterday the same but over the far end of the heath field. All seems very calm and quiet. The bird song is tremendous and they are all soo busy. X

Tuesday afternoon

The girls were all laying down in the oak woods by the car park very relaxed and enjoying the sun.

visited today at 11.40

All the girls seem to be putting on weight nicely and there winter coats are fast dissappearING, you can now see the spotty skin below. They were all around and about the first gat from the the carpark.lovely day the bird song is just soo beautiful.xx

visited today at 2.45

All three happily grazing at the bottom right of the heath field ,on your way to the water trough. They are looking very well indeed. And much less interested in me. X

Visit at 4pm Sunday 17th April - Kitkat has a small scratch

Lovely day for a stroll around the reserve where found the threesome by northerly gate entrance to the field (about D6). All seemed ok, but we noticed Kitkat had a small scratch on her lower neck, fairly minor although small spot of blood visible on the fur, seems pretty small and not significant to worry about. However, we soon realised how she picked this up, seems like she's developed a liking for the grass or receding bluebells the otherside of the barbed wire fence. We snapped a shot of her "red handed" in the act - see below, so we suspect she's scratched herself doing this. She also had some slight yellow patch below her eye, we thought it might be pollen or dirt but just mention it here in case it means anything, also see picture below. Apart from these minor things all seem well with them all. Mike and Ellee.

Made it today at 1500 hrs.  The girls in I8 area browsing heather and gorse.  Rosemary has a cut or something under the top of her left fore leg.  Don't think its at all serious but cannot see the graze just the blooded area.  However, it does not seem to be bothering her at all, as I'd expect.

visited today at 3.30

All three girls were standing in the top left hand corner of the open heath area as I walked towards them they started to walk fairly fast over toward the right hand corner, as I was looking at some fungi and some heather they promptly disappeared! so on further investigation they were hiding in the trees by the far right gate. If you have read my previous blogs u will know how ironic that is hahaha.xx

visited yesterday at 2pm

what Ive decided to do so that I can get amongst the cows without them running at me and without them following me with disappointment, is I pick some grass and take it to them, they now know all I have is a little grass and it seems to work. I did it for about the 8th time yesterday and they were less excited but did come over. They seem very well. X

Tuesday lovely day.

Popped into see the cows Tuesday afternoon. They all seemed to be really enjoying the sun and though very vocal at my appraise seemed relaxed enough. 

There is some significant hair loss on one adult near the top of her tail which I have advised our stock man about. 

Apart from that all seem well. 

visited today at 12noon

All the girls happily grazing in.x the top right hand corner of the heath field. All looks well. X

Saw the 3 today in I11 at about 1400 hrs.  All fit and well, though Lola has a long graze behind her front left leg but it isn't serious at all.  They were grazing short grass and browsing some gorse.

As is my wont.....another late post from me. And not even on the right day!
Visited the girls on Sunday (instead of Friday) and they looked wonderful. Very white, very content.
I'll be in London this Friday, so will visit them on Saturday instead.
(I'll make Friday one of these days!)

Visited at 16.30. Bright day but chilly wind. Found them about 300 yards from water trough, laying down in the gorse. They looked quite happy chewing cud. Seemed a shame to disturb them and expose them to the wind so left them. No obvious problems

John & Ann

visited today @ 7.30

So lovely that it's still light. All three came out of the trees, to the left of the heath field,to greet me. They look great to me no real problems that I cld see,couple of scratches one knick on the nose but that's it all good here. Spring is here whoopee,bring on the wild flowers. Xx

All looking white as daisies in the sunday mirning sunshine

On my way through to pondtail for a work party I stopped to check the cattle.  They are all looking glorious and calm and content.

Sun was shining, birds singing, bees flying too early for butterflies and reptiles though.

Elliott

visited today at 6.30pm

All three looked really well and very spritely. They came to greet me and their faces are covered in pollen, they look like they have gained weight. Sorry I haven't blogged as much lately but I work virtually every day in the school holidays so my hubby walks the dog. Xx

At about 1030 hrs this morning the girls were browsing in D4, Kitkat and Lola on bramble and Rosemary on an elder bush.  Thin pickings in this area under the young birch trees but they are great foragers.  However, all 3 look very fit and well.

looked today at 16.00hrs. Found the cattle about 100yds inside the cattle-grid by the railway bridge. all relaxed and browsing. Kitkat was drinking water from a puddle, rosemary browsing on a holly bush - tough mouth! Lola rummaging in the leaves and debris on the ground. all looked well and healthy
Ann & John

And another belated post from me......but this time I actually wrote it myself! Couldn't find the girls Friday 25th but saw them "loud and clear" on Saturday, looking lovely in the sunshine and chomping away on gorse. Ouch!

All having a rest and looking well Monday 28th at 4pm

Ellee and I tracked the threesome over in B6 by the fence and stile, they were having like a comfortable rest by the fence, snuggled up together. All looking well but we did not disturb them to walk around and get really close today. Picture below:

saw the 3 today at 1430  hrs around L7.  All very well, if a bit muddy, and browsing heather.

visited yester at 6pm

All three seemed totally fine they do definately seem to be putting on weight now. No problem noticed. They were at the top of the heath field. X

viewed Wed 23rd 16.00 hrs
Parked by railway bridge. Cows were browsing  just inside the cattle-grid at the entrance. As we entered they all walked away, following the path along the railway. No problems with walking - we followed till they stopped at the corner with the lower footpath. All seem quite healthy, eating whatever they find among the leaves and debris on the ground. Left them to it and went for a walk around the patch.
John & Ann

Belated post from Ruth (Friday 18th Mar).

Saw the girls yesterday (Saturday 19th) and Friday.  They are looking beautiful!

Ruth

Thursday afternoon goose chase.

I was on a rest day today but needed to check the cattle so went for a stroll with the kids. 

Leaving the car park to walk round the site in a clockwise direction I managed to get all the way round to find hen less than 50 yards form my car I'm the woods near the entrance. All lying down in the dappled shade of the oaks. 

Lovely day for it though!

3 ladies browsing holly in H7 at 1540 hrs.  They really are as tough as old boots.  All well.  At about 1600 hrs someone they know produced some carrots and they sprinted (!) off up to her.

Ann & John looked today at 4.00pm. Bright sunshine but cold wind. Parked in the wet bit by the railway bridge and found the cows just inside the cattle grid on the concrete path. All three looked fine, bright eyes,clean udders, wet noses and clean rumps. They seem to be browsing on the rhododendron bushes. We walked the pond and saw them again as we returned, now heading towards the snake area.

visited today at 2.30

As I entered the area from the main car park my dogs ran around and barked as per, well the cows were in the young beach tree patch opposite and must have seen /heard us, but as we were immediately close to them they started to moo and hurry towards me. It can be a little scary when they run over and then butt heads and almost push me .can someone just advice me of the best thing to do, Like what jestures to make or noises or should I hold a stick please. X

visited today at 6.30pm

All three girls seeming extremely spritely or maybe that's the effect I seem to have. They were over by the reptile watch patch and they came bowling down yo me when they noticed me. They were running about as I left very amusing.x

Sunday 5pm - all three look fine

We had a very pleasant walk in the sunshine today around the whole area of  Bramshot Heath looking for the allusive threesome only to find them alongside the entrance gate in E4 just about back where we started (just before we started to get concerned). They can't have been more than a few feet away from where we parked but somehow we missed them and took the other gate out of the watery car park. Seems slightly strange place for them to be so close to the gate and on the little concrete road, but perhaps the trees or the gorse lining the path was tastier there, we hope they'll drift back onto the heath again. No doubt other lookers will confirm this later this week.
Mike and Ellee.

2.30 today

A beautiful day today and the girls were looking spitelying just along from the fallen pine, 083 was being a little bullish to one of the others. Now they insist on running over to me I can see how fluffy the coats are and they do look healthy. Is there any nuts or cow food treats we can give them just on the occasion. My relationship with the cows is very close now. I think they like me. X

At 1700 hrs today the girls were grazing on heather and old yellow grass in L10.  Kitkat seems to have lost some winter coat off her neck but all 3 are fit and well.

visited today at yesterday 3.30

Sorry forgot to post yesterday. Both day the cows were near the broken old fallen pine, they seem very vigilant but ok.they have halved in size now, they look soo different. X

Ann and John signed on as lookers with Guy on Monday 29th. A beautiful sunny day for our introduction to the cattle.
We live in Fleet and walk around the pond for exercise regularly and thought "looking" would be a useful activity.
Did the first look today.
The cattle had moved a long way from the Monday location. It started to rain as I searched and eventually found them in the trees at the boundary corner of Bramshott  Lane and the Cody trading estate.
All three were walking in the trees feeding quite happily and not bothered by the rain. No sign of any problems.
We will be able to look for the next 4 Wednesdays and may then try and transfer to Sundays.
John G

Girls and adder looking good

I visited today to check the cattle which where all by the newly fallen pine.  They all looked good and were very calm.  There was no signs of moulting and all had ear tags.

Whilst on site I could not resist checking the runs for early reptiles.  All of the tins proved to be empty but I did get to see one adder, my first for the year!

Visit today at around Sunday 5pm, All 3 well.

Myself and Ellee found them all munching around the gorse bushes in I9/J9 at the fork in the path, they seem to like this triangle area between the paths and are about the same place as we found them last week. All look well however sometimes we can't or don't really fancy getting as deep into these thorny gorse as they certainly do :) But we got close enough anyway and no obvious issues were seen.

visited today at 4.40

Just started hailing and it stopped the cows from marching over to me today. To be honest I wish I never gave them apple those 2 days ages ago, I wish I hadn't given them false hope that I just may have food. X

visited today at 2.30

All 3 seem calm eating moss in the top right hand quarter of the heath field.

question

Any ideas how I can access the site map on this phone version. It would help me to describe were I encounter the cows, my descriptions are hard to understand. X

Just missed you today Joanne by about 15 mins!  Kitkat (I think - they wern't cooperating at showing ear tags) has a bare patch the size of a 50p piece at the root of her tail but it does not look anything serious.

visited today at 3.30pm

All three calmly watching me watching them,a lovely afternoon,bring on the wild flowers, wonder if the sun dew patch will have grown this yr hey elliot. Utoh the girls are heading towards me fast, umm stand your ground jo.xx

As per Joanne's post, what a lovely day! All found while taking a looker session in J5/J6 enjo

They were their typical, well behaved, selves. They are in good condition with no problems to report. Other than a good looker session with new lookers John and Anne : )

visited today at 1.pm

It's such a lovely day, the girls are laying down resting after their antics last night, in the same place on the path that runs through the heath field. .x

visited yesterday at 6 Pm ish

The girls were on the path that runs through the heath field. It was very strange because two of them were running up and down the path bucking and throwing their  hears around. Very odd never seen them like that before. X

At about 1200 hrs today the girls were lying cudding behind some gorse in L12.  They look very fit and well, and most contented.

visited yesterday at 2pm

All three were standing around by the reptile patch as I stood observing them they stormed over to me at top speed, I held my ground altho I was nervous, they stopped within arms length an shook their heads ,so close that their spit landed on me.Then they just looked at me, I even got allowed by one of them to scratch her head. Very stanye, but very cool.x

All three looking well around 11:30am on Saturday 27th Feb

Hi, all the girls looking fine today around 11:30am, all three were hanging out together around H8/I8 around the footpath or grazing within the trees munching on the gorse. Also we wandered up to the water trough, water it was looking clean and fresh. So all is well today. A few pictures for the album below. 

Mike and Ellee

visited today at 2.45

Two standing one laying all just staring forward, resting I guess in the undergrowth just left of the main gate into the grassy field. X

Saw all three. All is well.

At around 2 o'clock I saw all three. One of them was in a gorse bush one one side of the path and the other two where on the other side of the path, near the trough area. They all seemed happy and well.

At 1030 hrs today the ladies were out of "hiding" and in H9/J9.  Rosemary scratching merrily against the tree and and the other 2 just mooching about.  A mass of dogs were being a nuisance but the ladies ignored them.  All are very well.  I checked the trough and broke the ice.

visited today at 10.30.

I had to get off to work so didn't have too long but in my 40 min walk I couldn't see the girls anywhere, I did look all areas so I'm guessing they are hidden in a far corner.
So we have some more lookers prehaps we cld all meet up at Bramshor soon.

Well, I took a long walk around Bramshott Heath earlier today, searching for those girls, and found.........nothing!  Either I'm looking in the wrong places, or, they are hiding from me, disguised as silver birch trees, in which case they must be extremely thin!
I shall look again on Friday, so watch this space......

Haha, I'm in. Hurrah.
Looked for the girls last week but no sign. I'll return on Friday this week and hope to meet them.
R

Belated post for Tuesday 16th. Saw all the girls while running a looker session and I'm very happy with thier condition.

Just a quick one on the back of Joanne's concerns, the girls at Bramshot are in excellent health, better than most for this time of year so please don't overly concern your selves with them. They really are doing well and will be more than capable of seeing themselves through March. They behaved admirably yesterday for my new lookers, the Pinnegar's : ) Sprightly bunch. All good.

Visited today at 11am

All three girls standing in the center of the heath field watching passers by. I soo wish for this ground toby defrost and for spring to hurry up for them.I know I'm a big softy and would make a rubbish farmer. X

visited today at 12.45

All the girls are basking in the sun spread out along the bottom path of the heath field they seem fine however they really have slimmed down an awful lot lately. Hope they are ok. Xx

yesterday at 5pm

It was very cold so when I spotted two of the cows at the top right hand corner of the heath field, at the  end of go my walk,I didn't go all the way over as I was frozen.but all seemed find,from a distance however. X

visited today at 3.30

All three girls were s muffling around in the broken down dead fern near the car park gate(at the far end of the carpark) with the red sign on it.I can't imagine what they were munching on there seemed to be nothing there. One was having a lol scratch on a low birch branch. X

Visited at 1330 hrs.  The girls were cudding in M9 and enjoying the sun.  All really well.

visited today at 2.40

I haven't been able to find them for the last two days so I was relieved to see the grazing on dry grass just along from the fallen pine in the heath field. Why don't they eat the gorse flowers I wonder are they too small. X

Tuesday 9th Feb

Sorry for the late post. Found all three in H11 yesterday afternoon. They were all looking fit and well and enjoying the nice warm sunshine.

Visited today at 12.15

all the girls were grazing in the heath field by the fallen pine. All seemed fine. X

visited today at 2.20

All three cows spread out around the young birch trees opposite the large group of pine trees. They all watched me watching them but seemed fairly calm. X

All 3 together just off the path of I10 enjoying the sun

 

 

visited today at 2 30

All three cows were grazing various levels by the path at the bottom of the heath field.They seemed to come a greet me. They look ok but have really slimmed down.bring on the spring, plus that wind is so cold social I can't wait for it too. X

Visited at 1030 hrs.  Rosemary in J8 browsing young gorse, whilst Lola and Kitkat where in K12 grazing some low grass but mostly moss.  All three look very well.  Checked the trough and its OK.

Just missed Joanne!  It was 1615 when I got there, fresh from scanning our ewes at Merrist Wood. I don't think the Bramshott ladies liked the way I smelt!!  They were fine in J and K 8 but seemed to have switched to browsing heather.

visited today at 3.30

All three heads down eating young gorse slightly spread out in the center of the heath field all seems calm and well. X

visited today at 2.30

Strangely one of the cows  (it's impossible to read the no.)was standing all alone in the undergrowth immediately right of the access gate (used by the model plane people etc),I couldn't see the others at all. So after going on a mission the other two were in the dead fern off the track that leads to the main cattle gate into the big field. They both look greyer and wetter for some reason.hope they find each other ok.x

visited today at 12.45

All the girls standing close to one another in fact as I watch they are trying to climb on each others back for some reason 😄😄.they all look fine and are right near the fallen pine in the heath field. X

Hi folks, yes I'm still alive, just don't go over there as much now due to parking, Army etc but did pay a visit today.  We saw the cows at around 10:30am between J11 & K11 all with heads down. Didn't venture very close but they did look quite contented and look very well.  I also checked the trough which was very frozen. I managed to crack the ice eventually and remove most of it (VERY COLD)! I also put a large stick in as Guy mentioned but don't know how long that will last. On a positive note, listening to the weather forecast just now, it's going to warm up now, phew!

visited today at 2.30pm

All three girls were standing fairly close together in the very middle of the heath field, looking very clean and white, they still haven't forgotten the apples cos they followed me again. Bless em, nice to know they recognise me though. X

Seen today at 1115 hrs in J8 browsing heather and gorse that the sun had melted the frost from.  All three very well and contented.  Went to the trough and re-broke the ice.  There is a useful stick in the trough.

All Seen Monday

I caught up with them at around 3.45 pm. I called them over and gave then some nuts. They all looked really well.

visited today at 2pm

All present and correct munching on low branches and gorse,slightly spread out just along the path from the group of large pines at the front of the heath field. X

Calving 2016

Hello all.

Well all of the late winter and spring cows in calf are now back at the farm.  I would like to say a huge thank you to you all for your help with getting them to this stage.

As you can see from the next series of photos the British whites are all in the newly designed barn and the Shetlands have the neighbouring fields.  We have straw and hay a plenty and water on tap!

In total there are 29 due to calf in the next two to three months so fingers crossed, I will keep you updated.

This year all calves will be named with names starting with C, so get your thinking caps on and email guy your suggestions.

Elliott

Icy Troughs

You may have noticed it’s getting a tad colder now! I have certainly have, and this weekend its going to be another cold one. Therefore, could I please ask anyone that’s out and about to check our troughs haven’t frozen over for us? A good tip is to find a sizeable stick and leave it leaning in one end of the trough, this way when it ices over you can simply drag it out or move it thus break up the ice : ) Simples. Thank you very much in advance ladies and gents!

visited today at 2.30

All 3 girls munching away in the center of the heath field, soaking up some well needed rays of sun.They are all looking very well. X

All good and gorging on heather

All three were by newly wind blown dead pine tree.

All were happily grazing on the heather not interested in my presence whatsoever.

All had clear eyes and ear tags present and still looking very happy.

Elliott

Today at 1315 hrs the 3 were in K/L11 grazing low grass and heather.  No time for me, too busy foraging.  They look fine and in good, all-round condition.   I haven't checked the trough for a while; ought to do so.

visited today at 2.20pm

All the girls heads down grazing in the very center of the heath field .All looks well here. X

visited today at 11 am

All the girls are calmly grazing only various gorse bushes spread out in and around the reptile patch and along the tree line at the top of the heath field. X

visited today at 3pm

All three cows laying down in amount the dead fern just to the right of the main cattle gate into the big field.  They all look pretty grey today. X

Elliotts stock check

Hello all

Visited yesterday as part of site checks.  Curious to see condition of livestock and garage levels as have not been on site for a while.

Honestly have to say the cattle look fantastic.  They are much bigger than cattle on other, larger, sites which are also receiving supplement feed blocks.  That to me says an awful lot about the forage quality as it must be giving them what they need.

All three were ripping into the short turf and old grass tussocks as I watched them, stopping only to see if I had some nuts.  Disappointingly I did not so grazing began again with Ernest.  Ther is no mineral lick out on site as the cattle do not appear to need one and these are administered on a needs only basis.

The winter grazing is so far proving a great success and if it continues like this will become part of the regular grazing regime.

Elliott

 

visited today at 4.15

All the girls standing very still half way up the large path thro the heath field. Very still.where Is their salt lick by the way I've never seen it. X

visited today 5pm

I was walking thro the middle of the heath field and the three cows were standing completely still, close together in a row. As I passed them they seemed to recognise me andrapidly followed me, I must admit I was a bit concerned as they came fast and have never done that before. They stopped by the big dead tree which is were I fed them some apples all those weeks ago. They must have remembered. I felt awful walking away with them staring at me. X

Called in about 1415 hrs.  The girls were in and around K8 with heather being dish-of-the-day.  All well and contented. Got a lick from Kitkat.  That was a first as its usually just Lola.  Rosemary keeps her distance, as ever.

visited 31st at 6pm

With all the outtings and visits over Xmas I have been walking the dogs in the dark everyday and have seen hide nor hair of the cows. All will return to normal on Monday tho. X