Glorious Grazers

Did you know... that the UK is home to about 160 grass species?! For many grazing animals pasture is the main nutrient source. Insects, including pollinators like bees and butterflies, and wildlife thrive in these ecosystems. However, pasture is more than just grass. It is a complex matrix of grass, legumes, herbs, and wild plants and often includes shrubs. Each species plays an important role, contributing to animal and soil health, nutrient cycling, and ecosystem stability. Join us on the journey from ‘seed to feed’ and beyond and hear about this exciting ecological habitat!

Once upon a time, large herds of wild cattle roamed our grasslands. These wild cows fertilised the land and controlled trees, creating diverse habitats which were much-loved by caterpillars and moths. Nowadays, domestic cows are fenced-in and we no longer have such a range of habitats. The caterpillars and moths find themselves without a home. What are they to do?! Farmers are collaborating with cows to provide a solution! New grazing methods are being trialled to help create homes for moths. As part of my PhD, I’ve spent hundreds of hours searching for caterpillars, raising them as my own and finding out if these grazing methods work. Come along to find out what I discovered!

Ever heard of 'easy-keepers' or 'good-doers' among horses? These are animals prone to gaining body weight, so they need careful management to prevent obesity and associated conditions. Often, they are pony breeds with roots in the wet and windy British Isles. Surveying owners in Scotland, we asked how ponies are managed. While owners exuded confidence in managing obese ponies and some of the associated health risks, we noticed some tools that are underutilised, but that could help in caring for ponies with a need for feed! Join us as we challenge just how easy these ponies really are!