Chillingham Wild Cattle
This Ancient herd of cattle, whose history goes back over many years, and are believed to be decendants of the Wild Ox (Bos taurus), which roamed the country in prehistoric times. Now part of the National Trust, they attract visitors from all over the world.
Their only contact with humans is by way hay supplys in winter, in 1945 their total was down to 5, but they have increased in number since to over 20, it has been known in the past when a member of the herd has needed mans help, on its release it was rejected or even killed.
The herd is ruled by the "King Bull"who is father to the calves, born during his reign, till such time he looses his crown to a younger challenger. If the older bull does not die, during the fights to take his crown, he then becomes isolated from the herd, to live out his remaining days.
The Herd roam freely in the beautiful Park, part of the Chillingham Castle estate, stretching from the moorland of Ross Hill, with its magnificent views, down through old woodlands, home of so many varities of wild life, then across pastures to the lake, at the side of the castle. My favourite place as a boy.
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