Interacting with cattle

shane7

So I just got my first rifle just a cheap and cheerful .22 and finally got a some land to hunt on. I'm a Dub who has just moved recently to Wexford so I don't have any knowledge about rural farms or been around livestock. Everytime the cattle see me they all come running over so I end up leaving the field. I wait till they lose interest and try again but everytime I get over the gate they come running back over. I know they are just curious but what is the best way to cross fields when there are cattle about. Do you stand your ground and wave them away or is it best to find an alternate route.

Thanks

tabby aspreme

Probably best to avoid fields with cattle in them altogether, in the past it was just a bull you had to beware of, but in recent years with the increase in numbers of continental type suckler cows , some of which can get very aggressive if they have calves with them, its better to keep away from cattle

1shot16

Try to avoid livestock as much as possible horses are the worse i find,Try not to shoot in fields with livestock it will draw there attention..I use a silencer when shooting in fields when next to fields livestock in them as not to startle them.I only cross fields when out lampin as they cannot see me in the dark.

shane7

Ok thanks for the tips guys Ill avoid as much as possible so.

Vegeta

If I can at all, I avoid livestock. Have met some spirited bullocks, heifers and horses over the years. I don't like taking an unnecessary risk or agitating the animals. Which are after all, the farmer's livelihood.

I have to say the vast majority are well behaved and socialised. Simply interested in who you are. Still it pays to be cautious.

If you absolutely have no other choice than to cross a field containing livestock, unload firearm, slow delibirate movements, walk the shortest route to your exit point which causes the least disturbance, keep your eyes on them at all times and have an escape route planned out (low point in a ditch or similar) in case they charge you. It's usually dogs they show a real interest in, so do whatever you can to limit the exposure of the livestock to the dogs. Carry the dog if you have to.

I've never been involved in too hairy an incident. The brother had a bad one with a young horse trying to trample him though so try to limit any risks.

Eddie B

I just ignore them mostly! Cant be bothered trying to go around fields because of a few cows/horses e.t.c! Be mindful if you have a dog with you though! One thing you should never Do is put your dog on a lead when amongst cattle! Cattle Will chase a dog, a dog Will outrun livestock, YOU WONT!

Worse thing you could do is run! But makes great utube footage though! Lol

Hunter456

enter the field, they are inquisitive animals they will come over of course act as they are not there they will go about their business after awhile. but saying that never enter afield with any type of bull or bullocks on it they can never be trusted. never run and if there is a bull on the field keep near the electric fence so that if things get hairy you can move under fence in a safely manner.