UK Charity Flags Ancient Cattle Breed as High Risk

An ancient cattle breed in the United Kingdom has been classified as urgently at risk by a conservation group.

The Rare Breeds Survival Trust released its 2026 watchlist on Tuesday, moving white park cattle to its “priority” category after a sharp drop in new calf numbers. The group said births fell to less than two-thirds of 2022 levels.

Three other native breeds were also upgraded from “at-risk” to “priority” status. These include original population Lincoln Red cattle, Boreray sheep and Soay sheep.

The charity is calling on the government to increase support for rare livestock and equine breeds. Chief Executive Christopher Price said policies should recognise the role of these animals in the environment, not just provide funding.

White park cattle are considered an ancient breed with semi-wild traits. Their ancestors are believed to have moved with Celtic groups to parts of Britain about 2,000 years ago. The breed was common in the medieval period but declined as farming became more industrialised.

During World War II, former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill sent a herd to Canada for preservation.

The charity said limited financial returns for farmers have contributed to the decline, as larger commercial breeds are often preferred.

White park cattle are also used in conservation grazing to manage land and support wildlife habitats.

Despite the decline, some native breeds are improving. The report noted rising populations of Aberdeen Angus cattle, Manx Loaghtan sheep and Leicester Longwool sheep.

A spokesperson for Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs said native livestock remain important for genetic diversity and rural heritage, adding that support will continue through sustainable farming programmes.