The National Farmers Union of Scotland (NFUS) gave important advice for people in the countryside on Islay and other parts of Scotland: As people head out to enjoy the countryside this spring, NFU Scotland reminds everyone to take special care around newborn lambs and calves and to be careful not to disturb them. Spring weekends are traditionally taken as an opportunity to get out and enjoy the countryside, but this period also marks one of the most important and busy periods for livestock farmers when lambing and calving is well under way. While encouraging the public to go out and enjoy the country, the farmers are asking people to be mindful of livestock and, in particular, to keep dogs well away from vulnerable young and pregnant animals.

Cattle on Islay

Chairman of NFU Scotland’s Livestock Committee Chairman, and Borders livestock farmer, Rob Livesey said: "Spring is a great time to head out into the countryside and we obviously welcome responsible walkers and other recreational users who want enjoy Scotland’s outdoors. However, everyone should also be aware that spring is a particularly busy time for farmers and a critical time for newborn calves and lambs. Continue reading....

"The sight of young farm animals in spring is a joy shared by everyone visiting or living in the countryside, but we must protect these animals, and to do so it is essential that people follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and take local advice from farmers. "Farms are places of work and livestock can be easily upset at this time of year. In particular, dogs should be kept well away from cows, which can be very protective of newborn calves. The same applies to sheep where it is worth keeping in mind that even if no lambs are present, pregnant ewes are extremely vulnerable to being disturbed by dogs. "Those planning to take a walk or cycle in the countryside this Spring may want to remind themselves of the guidance given in the Code on how to do so responsibly. Farmers welcome people visiting the countryside to learn more about what happens on a farm and where their food comes from and I hope that people will bear in mind how important it is to behave appropriately when out and about on farmland."

Tag: outdoors walking farms cattle sheep

This story was published with kind permission of the Ileach local newspaper.