Livestock Checker- Skerne Wetlands

We’re creating a Yorkshire rich in wildlife for everyone and we’re getting a helping hand from some of our 4-legged friends! Sheep, cattle and Ponies graze areas of our land to help keep rough competitive species under control, leaving room for wildflowers and grasses which are important for a huge range of insects, birds and other amazing wildlife.

At Skerne Wetlands Nature Reserve we graze the site with heritage breed cattle named Belted Galloways. “Belties” as they are lovingly referred to are a calm, good natured cow and smaller than some other breeds. They do well on less than ideal pasture and will happily eat rough vegetation that other livestock would shun! We’re looking for local people to help watch over the cattle by visiting the site once a week or fortnight for roughly an hour. You won’t be needed to handle the cows but use your keen observation skills to check all is well, count them and report any injuries or illness to Yorkshire Wildlife Trust staff. No prior knowledge is required as full training is provided.

Livestock checks can be done at any time so are perfect if you have lots of other commitments to work around. You’ll pick a slot on our rota that suits you, all we ask is that you can definitely make it when you say you can.