Concern rises for some breeds

ALARM has been expressed for an ancient cattle breed which has been added to a watchlist.

The UK’s iconic, ancient White Park cattle breed has been moved to the most urgent category in the new rare breeds watchlist published by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST).

And any potential breeders/owners in Dumfries and Galloway are being advised to check out the trust website for support.

Distinctive White Park cattle have a pale coat, black muzzle and long sweeping horns.

Concern is growing about their outlook after new registrations declined in 2025 for the third consecutive year.

Historically, the White Park was a triple-purpose breed used for milk, meat, and draught work. Today it is primarily raised for its high-quality beef and its suitability for conservation grazing, helping to manage and restore natural habitats.

RBST is urging the Government to strengthen support for the conservation of White Park cattle

Chief executive Christopher Price said: “The sharp fall in White Park cattle birth registrations is a major concern for the breed’s future. "These striking rare cattle are an irreplaceable part of the UK’s heritage: with a story reaching back to the movements of Celtic peoples.

"Native cattle breeds such as the White Park still have an important role to play in sustainable farming, regenerative land management, disease resistance, biodiversity and food chain resilience of today and for the future."

The new RBST Watchlist also features Lincoln Red Original Population cattle; Boreray sheep; Soay sheep; Hackney Horse and Pony; the Cleveland Bay Horse; Northern Dairy Shorthorn cattle; and Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs.

However, the trust have revealed 'more positive indications' for: Native Aberdeen Angus cattle; Gloucester cattle; Manx Loaghtan sheep; Leicester Longwool sheep; Large Black pigs; the English Goat; Suffolk horse; and Dales pony.