Wednesday 20th November - All 24 seen

Steers 20, 197, 210, 219, and 227, along with cows 212 and 940, were grazing near ///tricks.thin.inclines at 07:55 this morning, not too far from Beacon Hill Road. Youngster 219 was resting and chewing his cud, while the others were busy munching on gorse. Despite the very chilly start, the cattle all appeared happy and in good condition.

Cows 211 and 1396 were resting and chewing their cud near ///radiates.noisy.dove ten minutes later. Both were very friendly and came over to greet me. Cow 211 enjoyed a neck rub and responded with affectionate head rubs and licks. The girls were both relaxed and looking well.

The remaining fourteen cows were scattered in small groups deep within the gorse bushes near ///items.vaulting.liked. Searching for them felt like navigating a maze, with dead ends, thick gorse, and the occasional cow blocking the way. Most of the group eventually emerged from the bushes, allowing me to check them before they returned to their breakfast. They all seemed absolutely fine and were coping well with the cold weather.

Steers 35, 217 and 230 had crossed into the gorse bushes near ///slick.chairs.apart by 09:00. Youngster 230 made his way to a clearing and enjoyed a back scratch.

There was significant army activity in the area, with troops camping under the trees by Beacon Hill Road overnight. The cattle had also slept nearby. Additionally, an orienteering event was being set up on Caesar’s Camp, with competitors expected to pass close to the gorse bushes where the cattle were grazing.

The cows were all good today.