Country diary: Trouble beneath the blackthorn

Long Dean, Cotswolds: Our small herd of North Devons has an air of contentment, but one of them is not wellThe cattle are scattered peacefully across the top of the bank, their winter coats burnished russet by the light. They know this south-facing side receives the fullness of the sun. Below me, a cock pheasant senses disturbance, hunches low and scuttles. I note with apprehension the freshly scratched-up patches where a badger has rummaged through the dung for worms - TB is a constant concern.From the empty ring-feeder comes the scent - redolent of a beach at low tide - of the mineral supplement added to the hay each day. Fed before dawn, the beasts now lie cudding, eyes half closed, contented. A calf from last year stands alone, nibbling bramble leaves, more bored by the idleness than hungry. Continue reading...