'Turning out day'


My husband's family have farmed in this area since 1920's. When his grandfather was farming, 15th May was an important date in his farming calender. After months of caring for cattle indoors today was the day they returned to the fields. Some years there would be decent weather before this, but he always erred on the side of caution and refused to 'turn out' earlier, no matter how good the weather. His concern was that frosty nights could return.

The cattle in the photo belong to a neighbouring farmer. They are Belted Galloway cattle (Belties). The beef from these cattle is sold to the oldest restaurant in London.
The Belties originate from the Galloway region of South West Scotland, more information and photos of these unusual creatures can be found
here.
Click on photo to enlarge.

Comments

Margaret said…
The cattle were let out in the field opposite to our house last week. We've had lots of rain since then and the weather has turned colder! I've never noticed if they're let out on the same day each year and they seem to stay out a lot later in the year than they used to.
Lucy said…
Wow! This is ther first time I see these beautiful creatures! Their coloring is wonderfully unusual. Thanks:)
Jane said…
I think I would have prefered to stay in the barn today. It's been raining all day
Belted Cows? am I seeing right, do they have a white band instead of patches of white spots? If so, I've seen some in New England, and I called them "striped cows">> my husband laughed at me we I told him I saw "striped cows".
zetor said…
Yes Diane, they have a white stripe . They are called Belted Galloways. I didn't realise they were in U.S.A.
Margot said…
What a beautiful area you live in. My husband used to work for a meat packing company and I told him about the cattle. He knew the name and exactly what I was talking about. I like hearing about the farm customs. They make sense.
Anonymous said…
I always learn something new here. I didn't know cattle were kept indoors for the winter. I guess I never really thought about it before. Your photo is beautiful. You must enjoy taking nice long walks in your area.
Jenny Girl said…
What a beautiful picture! I can almost smell the clean country air.

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