Hide and seek pros

Our longhorn cattle are a beautiful British breed with unique markings and horns.

Our four brothers at Nemo Down all have horns that point in different directions. As they get older, their horns will get longer and longer. They are very docile and calm, often taking a lot of persuasion to get up from their sleeping positions so that we can check that they are in good health. Our latest technique is to imitate snake sounds, although we find the flapping arm technique works quite well as well.

Compared with the older Highlands on nearby sites, these youngsters quite like to run when the mood suits, We have seen them hurtling down a chalky 45-degree hillside towards a food bucket and stopping within 2 yards. They are nosy and curious. Given the opportunity, they will go for a wander to see what's available in the next field or wood.

They generally stay fairly close to each other, like a family, which makes checking a bit easier. If you find one, you tend to find them all. They eat a varied diet on these slopes including buddleia, bramble, and hawthorn, making them excellent conservation cattle. This winter, they have found their way into a big dense hawthorn block where they can eat the scrub and shelter from gale-force winds. You would never guess they were in there – only the trackers they wear gives them away. Only an animal that big and bold with such a tough hide can squeeze in there. Our Livestock Checkers have no chance and must find inventive ways to get to them to take part in their daily welfare checks - this makes for an interesting game of hide and seek.