Written by Pauline Gaywood. Head Volunteer Shepherd & Warden of Pentwyn & Wyeswood reserves.

All definitions of “Conservation” relate to the same substance: The preservation or restoration of something; to protect from neglect, damage, or loss.  Nature used to manage the earth in balance with itself, until mankind took over.  This is where livestock can help to restore some balance; in mimicking ancient herbivores to restore and conserve habitats for wildlife, in a natural way!

Our modern livestock need more support than their ancestors and depend on humans to some degree for survival.  This is where we come in!  The livestock checkers (aka ‘the shepherds’) are a highly appreciated and valuable asset for Gwent Wildlife Trust (GWT), in helping to ensure the ongoing health and welfare of the livestock.

How do we do this?

Based upon a monthly roster covering 365 days a year, we ensure that all the livestock are seen on a daily basis by a volunteer shepherd.  We are kept informed of the various livestock locations and status by regular updates; and have field maps and relevant guides to help us.  I took on the role of co-ordinating the shepherds’ group, and compiling the rosters, having been a GWT volunteer shepherd since December 2010.  Generally, I will also send out the updates to the rest of the shepherds.

Where do we check?

The home base for the livestock is Pentwyn Farm, incorporating the Pentwyn Meadows and Wyeswood Common reserves.  However, at various times of the year they will be out grazing different GWT reserves across Gwent, so we need to be willing to visit those sites and venture across a variety of terrain in all weathers.  The rewards are great; from the well-being aspect of being outdoors and healthy exercise, to the glorious views, and the many opportunities to encounter wildlife.

What do we have to check?

1. Livestock – We visit and count all the livestock on our allocated site, to ensure we have seen every individual animal – sick/injured animals will hide!  Also that they are not trapped in fences/gates/brambles, etc.  And all appear generally healthy, relaxed, and content.
2. Water – that they have access to water (usually water tanks) that is sufficient for next 24 hours. The water tanks/pipes are not leaking/over-running.  Clear them of ice in winter.  And water buckets, when used, are re-filled (from nearby tank/tap depending on location).
3. Food – livestock appear generally content and not hungry.
4. Location – The grazing area is secure/boundary fully enclosed.  Gates are closed/open as expected.  Gate latches are secure.  Fences are intact/secure (no fallen trees pulling fence down).  Report anything that may be a risk to public, staff, volunteers, or livestock.  For example; dogs not on leads, or where dogs are not allowed.

Then we report back to our staff supervisor – Senior Conservation Grazing Officer, Joe Ryder; alerting him to concerns and that we have completed the round and are leaving the site.

The way each type of animal moves about and munches their way across reserves is quite different; each adding its own ability to maintain different habitats for a huge variety of flora and fauna.  So by helping to fulfil daily checks of the livestock we are also part of the conservation team, improving landscapes for nature.

You can find lots more information about volunteering as a shepherd here. There's also a video about Conservation Grazing and the shepherds’ involvement here.