A herd of goats has taken on the job of managing grassland near Roundhay Park as Leeds City Council trials a natural way to protect a local wildlife site.
The Royal Golden Guernsey goats are grazing Asket Hill, where steep, uneven ground makes maintenance difficult. Their task is to control shrubs and brambles while helping preserve the meadow's variety of plants and wildlife.
The rare-breed herd has been supplied by Mossy Oaks, based at Castle Howard. The council says the goats are well suited to outdoor conditions and can help improve wildlife habitats without relying on machinery.
Protecting a species-rich meadow
Asket Hill is recognised as a local wildlife site for its species-rich lowland meadow, a threatened habitat. Wildflowers and insects in these grasslands also provide food for birds and bats.
Conservation grazing is intended to recreate the role once played by wild herbivores, keeping more vigorous growth in check and making room for other plants.
Councillor James Gibson, Leeds City Council's executive member for environment, said the scheme would help maintain the difficult terrain while allowing wildlife to thrive.
Asket Hill has been a challenge to look after due to it being very steep and uneven so getting these goats in is really brilliant and lets us protect our vital biodiversity.
He linked the project to the council's ambition for Leeds to become the UK's first nature-positive city.
Oli from Mossy Oaks said grazing would help create space for delicate wildflowers to recolonise. He also thanked volunteers who are checking on the goats while they are on site.
Goats will remain until 12 November
The herd is due to graze Asket Hill until 12 November. Visitors are asked not to pet or feed the goats and to keep dogs on leads nearby.
The project is currently a pilot, with a plan for the goats to return each year.
