Cows mooooving back to Chasewater

The four cows, including three Aberdeen Angus-British Friesian and one Belgian Blue-British Friesian animals, were released onto Chasewater on 18 April, and are settling in well to their new home.

A local farmer has once again kindly loaned the council the cows. They will help the District Council's Countryside team to manage the heathland by grazing on the vegetation, which if left unattended would revert back into woodland. Heathland habitats support a huge variety of nature, including many rare species. Grazing helps maintain the special features of heathland, such as limited scrub, small shrubs and patches of bare ground. In September, the cattle will be moved to a small area of heathland near the Sailing Club.

The presence of cows on Chasewater does not mean the area is out of bounds to visitors. The footpaths through the grazing areas are still open to everyone, but please keep a reasonable distance from the cows and do not feed them. Also remember to keep all dogs under close control when near the livestock, as required by the Countryside Code.

Councillor Neil Roberts, Cabinet Member for Development Services, said: "We're pleased the cows are back on the site, and we hope visitors will come and take a look at them. Please help us protect the cows by contacting Lichfield District Council on 01543 308000 if you see any problems."

Chasewater will be home to the cattle until September.