There's no specific breed of cow in the New Forest National Park and all cattle are owned by the forests' praticing Commoners. The majority of cattle are reared for the meat market and the most popular breeds are the Galloway and Hereford crossbreeds. All cattle must be branded for proof of ownership and identification purposes and upon payment to the Agisters, the cows are tagged.
The
'right of common of pasture' (the right to graze commonable animals) is an ancient right attached to property or land and cannot be removed. Conventional farmers graze their animals in fields, whereas New Forest Commoners graze their animals on the forest.
During the spring and summer months when grazing is plentiful, you will see many cows roaming the forest. However, during autumn and winter the numbers are greatly reduced as the cattle are removed by their owners and returned to their holdings. Acorns, that fall in autumn, can be harmful to cows and
ponies, if eaten in large numbers.
Although cows are pretty docile animals they should still be observed from a distance, especially when they are with calves as they can be very protective over them.
Cattle like all forest animals may wander onto the road, day or night. Therefore, for the safety of all
wildlife and Commoners' livestock, it's important to keep your speed under 40mph if driving within the New Forest.
