Baby bliss as five extremely rare cows born at Temple Newsam

Categorised as ‘priority’ by the Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST), Vaynol cows originate from North Wales and were first established in the late 19^th Century. The herd at Temple Newsam stems directly from that first herd, having lived there since the 1980’s.

Richard Aldis, farm manager at Temple Newsam, said: “We’re so thrilled to have welcomed these little ones to the farm.

“The team here works hard to protect these rare breeds that the farm is home to and it’s always wonderful when we can successfully grow the herd.

“The calves are settling in well and we’re just thinking about names for them.”

When the herd arrived at Temple Newsam in the 1980’s the team was able to carry out work which has proved extremely valuable to the current breeding programme that the RBST runs.

Vaynols can now be found in five locations in the UK, with Temple Newsam’s Home Farm currently home to one bull, 14 breeding cows, five heifers (females yet to calve) and an amazing five calves born in the last month.

One of the largest rare breed farms in Europe, all the breeds at Temple Newsam are native to the UK and include white faced woodland sheep, middle white pigs and Bagot goats.

Councillor James Gibson, Leeds City Council’s executive member for environment, said: “It’s wonderful to hear the news about these rare little calves being born, it is truly a testament to the important work that is done by the team at Temple Newsam’s Home Farm in preserving these breeds for future generations.

“There is so much for visitors to enjoy at the estate. Alongside the farm and its wonderful animals, people can explore the magnificent Temple Newsam House, enjoy the new bike park, and visit the recently opened play barn. It really is a fantastic day out for the whole family.”

For more information, visit Temple Newsam | Leeds Museums and Galleries.

ENDS