Cattle return to Derby for 10th year of conservation grazing
Tue 18 Nov 2025
Cattle have returned to Derby's parks for the 10th year as part of an annual grazing programme. The cattle will graze three of our green spaces throughout the winter months.
The collaboration between Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (DWT) and Derby City Council aims to improve biodiversity and maintain the natural beauty of our parks.
Three Highland cows, named Megan, Minnie and Annie, recently arrived at Sinfin Moor Park Local Nature Reserve. Meanwhile nine cattle, a mix of Highland and Short Horn, are grazing at Darley and Nutwood Local Nature Reserve.
Later in the season, the cattle will come together at Allestree Park, for what will be the 10th year of grazing on the site, as part of the continued wildlife enhancements on the park. The scheme is part of the Higher Level Stewardship project, funded by Natural England. It’s been hailed as an example of good practice in the East Midlands region and has won national awards for innovation.
The conservation programme offers several benefits. Cattle selectively graze, promoting biodiversity by allowing less competitive plants to thrive. They also play a crucial role in managing grasslands and meadows. Additionally, cattle create diverse habitats, such as bare ground for seedlings and dung piles for insects, birds, and other animals.
Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Parks and Leisure, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome the cattle back for another year of this nationally acclaimed conservation scheme. This fantastic partnership with the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust proves how effective natural methods can be in enriching Derby’s precious green spaces. Their selective grazing is vital for boosting biodiversity, ensuring our parks remain beautiful and thriving habitats for all wildlife.”
The Council’s Derby Parks team works with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and volunteers from various Friends groups undertake daily checks on the cattle as they do their vital work. The cattle’s movements are also monitored by collars which help the farmers keep track of where they are grazing.
Katherine Clarke, Strategic Lead for Urban Rewilding at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, said:
“We’re thrilled to be celebrating ten years of conservation grazing in Derby, working alongside Derby City Council. We desperately need wilder and more diverse habitats to help wildlife recover, and year on year we see first-hand how these incredible animals transform these spaces into richer, more vibrant landscapes.
“Grazing remains one of the most natural and effective ways of managing many habitats, shaping the land in ways that human intervention and machinery simply cannot replicate. From browsing brambles to create mosaic habitats, to grazing vegetation to different heights to support insects, and encouraging wildflowers that provide pollen, nectar and food for birds - their impact is remarkable.
“It’s wonderful to see them back for another winter and we look forward to, once again, watching how they help wildlife thrive.”
Visitors are welcome to observe the herd, but please remember these vital safety rules: always walk calmly and keep your dog securely on a lead. It may be tempting but please do not feed the cows – even small treats like apples can seriously harm their stomachs.
