Coo Beasties

Some time ago, bluehairsue challenged me to do something involving the nature reserve behind our house. A few months ago, an appeal went out from the council for people to become conservation grazing lookers for cows to be pastured on it, so I signed up, went on a course and now possess a certificate saying I am qualified to look at cows.
Then time passed. Cows were in short supply. Until last week when 5 red poll bullocks arrived. And today was my first official cow-looking duty. Out I went in my wellies (don't laugh) with my clipboard to inspect fences, check water supplies and, well, look. It took me a while to find all 5 -- one was feeling shy -- but eventually we achieved full cow-dom. They were curious about me -- two of them came over to investigate me, check to see if the clipboard was food and to use me as a scratching post. All quite amicable, however -- happy ears and so forth (and I am not particularly bothered by bullocks. I have cousins who raise them, so I'm moderately familiar with them). They made cow-snuffing noises at me and I said 'Go by, you silly beastie' back and all was calm.
They're quite pretty, with nice shaggy coats and big brown eyes. I'll try and take some photos in the next few days.