Saturday 20th June - All 25 seen

At 09:40 this morning, steers 21, 30, 217, 220, 228, 230, 270, and 271 were all lying down, relaxing and chewing their cud in the pasture northeast of Horse Pond. Although it was a bit cloudy and cooler today, there were still plenty of flies about, but the boys didn’t seem too bothered. They were all happy to be approached and enjoyed a few strokes as I made my way around checking on them. Several got to their feet for neck and back scratches, while youngster 228 rolled onto his side, clearly enjoying a relaxing belly rub. All eight were happy, relaxed, and looking well.

At 10:30, cows 72, 214, 234, and 940, along with steers 20, 33, 35, 219, 222, and 227, were gathered among the trees to the far west of Horse Pond near the path. Sussex steer 210 and cow 212 were also with the group, while steer 197 preferred some quiet time closer to the water’s edge to the east. Most were lying down, relaxing and chewing their cud, with a few dozing in the shade. Cow 940 was the first to get up and greet me, enjoying an extra‑long back scratch before several of the others took their turn. Youngster 222 was especially affectionate today, leaning in for some lovely cuddles after a satisfying neck scratch. British White cow 214 is still shedding the last of her winter coat, and she seemed to appreciate me brushing the loose hair from her back by hand. After a good while, steer 197 came and lay down beside the other two Sussexes. The group were all comfortable, relaxed, and in good condition despite the annoying flies. I said my goodbyes at noon, leaving them all resting peacefully.

At 12:15, the final four Sussex cattle — cows 211 and 1396, together with steers 1626 and 1640 — were at the far western end of Sandy Hill and had just set off grazing east along the sides of the path. All four were enthusiastically munching on the fresh grass but still took time to stop and come over to say hello. They all enjoyed some back scratches as they continued to graze contentedly. I said my goodbyes at 13:00, leaving them peacefully grazing and enjoying their lunch.

The cows were all good today.