Fields with young animals present

Responsible behaviour by the public

The Access Code says:

You can avoid disturbing sheep close to lambing time, or young animals such as calves, lambs, foals and farmed deer, by going into a neighbouring field or onto adjacent land. If this is not possible, keep as far from the animals as possible. Do not take dogs into fields where there are young animals present.

Additional information

Specific advice for dog walkers can be found in the Practical Guide for All on the dog walking pages.

Responsible behaviour by land managers

The Access Code says:

Where possible, avoid putting sheep close to lambing in fields where there is a well-used route or, if this is not possible, you could indicate a reasonable alternative route.

It may be useful to put up a sign advising the public that pregnant ewes have been put in a field just before lambing, so that they are aware and can take precautions.  These warnings over particular activities need to be reasonable and practicable, and to be kept to the minimum area and duration required.