Story perspectives

White Park Cattle Declared Urgently At Risk, Urgent Action Needed

4/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Rare Breeds Survival Trust has classified white park cattle as urgently at risk due to a decline in calf numbers, now below two-thirds of 2022 levels.
Lincoln red cattle, boreray sheep, and soay sheep have also been moved to the "priority" category.
The charity calls on the UK government to increase support for rare livestock to protect biodiversity.
While some native breeds struggle, others like Aberdeen Angus and Leicester Longwool sheep are experiencing population growth.
A spokesperson from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) emphasized the significance of native breeds in rural heritage and assured ongoing support.

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Story summary

The Rare Breeds Survival Trust has classified white park cattle as urgently at risk due to a decline in calf numbers, now below two-thirds of 2022 levels.
Lincoln red cattle, boreray sheep, and soay sheep have also been moved to the "priority" category.
The charity calls on the UK government to increase support for rare livestock to protect biodiversity.
While some native breeds struggle, others like Aberdeen Angus and Leicester Longwool sheep are experiencing population growth.
A spokesperson from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) emphasized the significance of native breeds in rural heritage and assured ongoing support.