The idyllic landscapes of England, with its rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and patchwork fields, are a magnet for walkers. However, the beautiful coexistence between people and livestock can present challenges, particularly during the calving and lambing season. Encounters between enthusiastic ramblers and protective livestock parents can, unfortunately, lead to accidents, highlighting the need for increased awareness and responsible behaviour.
While serious incidents remain relatively rare, they do still occur on a regular basis. Over the years I have represented many clients who were seriously injured while taking casual walks through fields. Cows charging at walkers, with or without dogs, because they have become distressed by the close proximity of the walkers to their young offspring, add a layer of unpredictability to countryside strolls.
Often, when entering a piece of land using a signed footpath, the presence of cows ahead is not obvious, and the farmer may not have put up warning signs or taken any steps to separate walkers from the cows.
Multiple and complex physical injuries as well as psychological effects are not uncommon when cows attack walkers, due to their size and strength.
Recent incidents across England
At Enable Law we have a significant presence along the South coast, an area which is full of stunning walking routes including Rights of Way which often cross farmland. We also represent clients in Yorkshire and other rural areas. Below are examples of serious incidents I have supported clients with or witnessed in the news in recent years.
Devon: In the spring of last year, a walker in the Dartmoor National Park sustained significant injuries after a cow, seemingly protective of its newly born calf hidden nearby, charged. The walker, who had a dog on a lead, reported that the cow showed no signs of aggression until they were in close proximity to the unseen calf. This incident underscores the importance of keeping a safe distance, even when animals appear calm.
Cornwall: A popular coastal path in North Cornwall experienced a temporary diversion one spring after several incidents of walkers being closely followed by ewes with lambs. While no direct attacks occurred, the distressed behaviour of the ewes, bleating loudly and becoming agitated as walkers passed, raised concerns for both animal welfare and walker safety. Farmers implemented a short detour to avoid the field during this sensitive period.
Kent: A local news report detailed an incident where a walker in the Romney Marsh area was nipped by a ewe when they inadvertently got too close to her lamb. The walker sustained a minor injury but the incident served as a reminder that even seemingly docile animals can react defensively when they perceive a threat to their young.
Hampshire: Along the Solent Way, a farmer put up temporary signage advising walkers to keep dogs on short leads after witnessing several instances of dogs barking at and unsettling young calves in a field bordering the path. This proactive measure aimed to prevent potential confrontations and ensure the well-being of the livestock.
Yorkshire: A husband and wife were walking their dogs while on holiday in the North York Moors. When they entered the piece of land using a stile on a Public footpath, there were no cows to be seen. However, as they proceeded with their walk they were confronted by cows which proceeded to attack them.
Lancashire: An experienced walker was walking with a friend along the popular Pendle Way when he was attacked by cows. His injuries included a broken arm and lost several teeth.
North Yorkshire: My client who was attacked by cows while walking along a popular circular route near Masham suffered multiple injuries, including internal damage and was airlifted by the air ambulance to hospital.
Also in North Yorkshire, a teacher was attacked by cows while walking his dogs in Richmond. He later died from the injury to his chest, and the farmers fined for Health & safety breaches.
Even though we are all responsible for being careful when we use public footpaths crossing farmland, there are simple things farmland owners can do to prevent accidents, especially when they know that their grazing land is likely to be accessed by walkers, who may be visitors to the countryside and therefore unfamiliar with the dangers.
Putting up signs indicating the possible existence of cows or bulls in fields is an important measure to bring the possible dangers to the attention of walkers. Keeping fields closed or animals off publicly accessed land during calving or lambing season is another way to prevent accidents.
How we can help when you are injured by a farm animal
If you or your loved one have been injured by an animal a member of our team or Julia Prior may be able to help you. We have a strong track record of bringing successful claims for injuries caused by animals. To have a free, confidential discussion with a member of our team call us on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form.
