Why Cows Don’t Need Ready Brek*

Well, it helps that all our cattle are bred to flourish in this climate.

They are either Aberdeen Angus - we have both native and modern types - or OP Herefords.

Cattle prepare for winter all summer; by making sure they eat as much of the diverse plants in our pastures as possible!

Cows suited to this system are very efficient; they eat enough to not only feed themselves, but to provide milk for their calf and to lay down plenty of back fat as insulation for winter.

Their coats also get thicker and fluffier in the autumn to provide an additional thermal layer. The calves take this especially seriously and can look like puff balls!

So far nothing unexpected.

However.

Did you know that a cows stomach (rumen) generates heat as it digests the cellulose present in older winter grass? So much heat that it keeps them nice and toasty in all but the coldest, wettest, windiest weather?

i.e. Cows have their own portable mini-furnace – how clever is that!?

That must count as another super power. One I’d really appreciate myself on chilly winter mornings!

*Other warm oat based breakfasts are available!