Safety on the coastal path: livestock

Anglesey is quite a densely livestocked island. Sheep from the mountains of Snowdonia are over wintered on the island, returning to the hills in late spring. For this reason you are highly likely to encounter sheep on the coastal path

You may also encounter cattle – suckler cows, bullocks and even the occasional bull. Bulls of a non-dairy breed are permitted on footpaths, provided they are at large with cows or heifers. These beef bulls often look the most intimidating as they are so large, but they are normally docile.

In order to help the coastal path and agriculture coexist, keep your dog on a lead when passing through fields with livestock, and under control at all other times out of consideration to other path users. When walking through a field with cattle, walk steadily around the herd – try not to walk through the middle – giving them a wide berth. If you happen to come across a cow with a calf then take extra care not to come between young calves and their mothers, and give them plenty of room. If you are nervous carrying a stick can help.