The ‘goat’ of lawnmowers introduced at Roundhay grassland

By grazing on the land, the goats will control shrubs and brambles in a natural way and maintain the field which can be difficult to access due to the steep terrain.

The rare breed Royal Golden Guernsey goats, supplied by Castle Howard-based Mossy Oaks, can live outdoors all year round in harsh environments, making them perfect for maintaining and improving habitats for wildlife.

Asket Hill is a local wildlife site recognised for its species-rich lowland meadow, which is a threatened type of habitat.

These special habitats support a wide variety of wildflowers and insects, providing an important food source for birds and bats, which will be protected through letting goats graze the field rather than using machinery.

Species-rich grasslands have declined by 97% over the last 50 years, and losses are still continuing.

Conservation grazing with goats mimics the ecological role that would have been held by wild herbivores historically found in the area.

Councillor James Gibson, Leeds City Council’s executive member for environment, said: “This is a fantastic way of managing this grassland in the best way possible, both maintaining the area and preventing it from being overgrown, and letting wildlife thrive at the same time.

“Asket Hill has been a challenge to look after due to it being very steep and uneven so getting these goats in is really brilliant and lets us protect our vital biodiversity. This is all part of our ambition to be the UK’s first nature positive city.”

Oli from Mossy Oaks said: “It’s great that we’ve been able to work with Leeds City Council to provide an effective and nature friendly solution to restoring the species rich grassland at Asket Hill. The goats grazing will leave a perfect habitat for more delicate wildflowers to start to recolonise whilst leaving space for wildlife.

“We’re very thankful to our wonderful team of volunteers who are giving up their time to help us check on the goats whilst they’re on site.”

The goats will be grazing on Asket Hill until 12 November. People are asked not to pet or feed them and to keep their dogs on leads nearby.

Currently running as a pilot scheme, the plan is for the goats to return each year.  

For more information on the goats visit mossyoaks.co.uk. 

ENDS