Wild Beasts of Chillingham
Photograph by Denene Crossley
One of the rarest animals on earth, the wild cattle of Chillingham are remarkable survivors of the ancient cattle which once roamed Britain’s forests. For the past 700 years these animals have inhabited Chillingham Park, completely isolated and free from human influence. They are totally inbred yet remain fit and healthy ‑ a unique situation without parallel in any wild animal anywhere else in the world.
History of the herd
The herd is thought to have been penned into the great park at Chillingham Castle during the 13th Century and have lived here for the past 700 years. It’s believed these animals may well be very similar to those that wandered Britain’s lands during Roman times. Herd numbers have fluctuated dramatically over the years. The fierce winter of 1947 almost wiped them out entirely, reducing the herd to just 13. Today the herd numbers are around 100; about half are bulls and half are cows. Both have horns and a characteristically fierce temperament to match. These are formidable creatures and appear very different to the gentle domesticated cattle of today.
Photograph by @countrylifemagazine
True Survivors
The cattle are regarded as somewhat of a scientific marvel as interbreeding throughout history is well known to lead to extinction due to the concentrated gene pool that the animals share. Recent DNA studies show that the herd has a uniquely high degree of genetic uniformity. However, the cattle have managed to survive all these years in spite of this and the herd continues to grow. The animals breed at anytime throughout the year and rates of calf survival are improving all the time.
Photograph by @elisesutton_
Stewardship
Even though the cattle live like wild animals, their unique habitat must be managed to protect them against external dangers. The herd is unsurprisingly very vulnerable to the threat of disease so strict biosecurity measures are often taken to help reduce the chance of infection. A key part of the stewardship of these animals is the methodical record keeping of births and deaths. This has continued ever since none other than Charles Darwin recommended it over 160 years ago!
Photograph by @bbateyphotography
The King Bull
Meet the King Bull of Chillingham ‑ one great bull who rules the entire herd. He will mate with any willing cow and fights every young male who dares to challenge him. Eventually after a few years, the king bull will likely lose or surrender his place to a younger, more vigorous animal.
Photograph by Rick Waddington
Wild Beasts
Left to run wild, the wild beasts of Chillingham have remained untamed and untouched since the medieval ages meaning the cattle’s behaviour you’ll witness is entirely natural.
If numbers in the herd are high, bulls will spend a great deal of time working out who is in charge. They challenge each other by bellowing, pawing the ground and demonstrating their enormous size and strength. They often fight, ferociously and occasionally to the death, meaning It is quite unusual for a bull to live longer than 12 years.
Photograph by @visitnorthumberland
Fascinatingly, this is the total world population and can only be seen at Chillingham.
Useful Information
Route Section: Country
///: vans.milkman.horizons
Parking: Free parking at the wild cattle visitor centre.
Dog Friendly: No.
Warning: You may only observe the cattle when accompanied by a warden, who will ensure your safety.