On our first morning on Oronsay, we were awoken by the lowing of Luing cattle as they ambled along the strand, picking at tasty morsels of sea weed. In the distance we could just make out the distant hills of Donegal in Ireland.
One by one the whole herd, including the bull and the calves, scratched their heads on the bows and sterns of our kayaks. The breed guidelines have some interesting criteria. Bulls should have a "minimum 38cm scrotal circumference" and "enough crank to give flexible action". I decided not to investigate if this bull was a prime example of the breed and kept a very respectable distance! David, despite his professional interest as seakayakphoto.com's staff vet, stayed firmly in his sleeping bag.
It was not just the fine red Luing cattle that gave the beach a reddish tinge...
... it was covered in red periwinkles, which despite their lack of girth, seemed to have enjoyed considerable breeding success.
Surely their breeding success is due to some girth of sorts! Interesting post.
ReplyDeleteHi Douglas,
ReplyDeleteGreat trip report, again. I've committed the quote on the breed specification for Luing cattle to memory; and I'm looking forward sooo much to introducing it as a casual remark at the next Officer's Mess meal featuring roast beef! ;o)
all the best
Ian
Michael, in proportion, they may put even the fine Luing bull to shame!
ReplyDeleteIan, I am sure it will go down a ball! Let me know how it goes!
:o)