At Ross Bay Retreat, we’re passionate about farming in harmony with nature. One of the most effective ways we can do this is through conservation grazing —a natural land management technique that helps protect and enhance biodiversity.
But why is grazing so important? And how does it help the many species that live in and around our farm by the sea? Let’s explore.
Ross Bay Retreat and Farm Aerial View
Why Conservation Grazing is Important
Grazing plays a vital role in maintaining species-rich grasslands and open habitats. Without it, these areas often become overgrown, turning into scrubland that supports far fewer species. Carefully managed grazing allows wildflowers, insects, and other ground flora to thrive—creating a ripple effect that supports everything from bees to birds.
However, balance is key. While too much grazing can damage habitats, well-managed grazing ensures:
- Soil is protected and healthy.
- Diverse plant life can flourish.
- Wildlife has the space and resources it needs to survive.
Cattle Grazing at Ross Farm
Open Habitats at Ross Bay
Much of the land we manage here at Ross Bay is open ground, especially along the headland. Some of this land is naturally unsuitable for crops due to being high, wet, or exposed. Other areas we deliberately keep open to create vital habitats for plants, insects, birds, and small mammals.
By doing so, we’re not only conserving biodiversity but also making sure these landscapes remain part of the rich natural heritage of Scotland.
Farmland at Ross Bay Retreat
Which Animals are Best for Conservation Grazing?
Different grazing animals help the land in different ways:
- Cattle tear at vegetation, reducing heavy plant cover and giving space for delicate wildflowers.
- Sheep nibble more selectively, helping manage certain plants that cattle avoid.
- Ponies, such as hardy native breeds like the New Forest and Dartmoor pony, are often used to maintain heathland and grassland habitats.
At Ross Bay Farm, we keep native cattle breeds such as Hereford, Shorthorn, Red Poll and Aberdeen Angus Hereford, Shorthorn, Red Poll, and Aberdeen Angus crosses, alongside Charolais, British Blue, and Limousin bulls. Our sheep graze on rotation year-round, keeping weeds like ragwort at bay and helping to keep grasses healthy and balanced.
Farmland & Bay at Ross Farm
Healthy Soil, Healthy Life
Good soil management is at the heart of conservation. Poor practices can lead to soil degradation, which harms ecosystems and reduces biodiversity. By integrating grazing animals into our land management, we protect the soil and encourage it to regenerate naturally.
Healthy soils benefit everyone—they help with food production, store carbon to tackle climate change, and support a thriving web of plants, insects, and wildlife.
Supporting Native Wildlife
At Ross Bay, we encourage wildlife in many ways:
- Hedges and gorse provide cover and nesting sites.
- Hay meadows act as havens for birds, butterflies, bumblebees, and other pollinators.
- Field margins, scrubland, ponds, and wetlands all create important habitats.
- Barley stubble left after harvest supports small mammals and overwintering birds.
We’re also working with local conservation groups to monitor endangered species such as the brown argus butterfly and to manage overgrown gorse in certain areas.
Northern Brown Argus Butterfly
The Challenge of Human Disturbance
While farming plays its part, human activity can also threaten wildlife. Disturbance from walkers, vehicles, and other recreation can have serious impacts on nesting birds, deer, and other species.
A stark example of this is the capercaillie —a rare and declining bird of the Scottish Highlands. With fewer than 600 left in the UK, human disturbance is one of the greatest threats to their survival. Protecting these sensitive habitats is vital if we want to keep them from disappearing altogether.
The Cairngorms Capercaillie Project has managed to reduce levels of disturbance by humans over the last 5 years to help protect the habitat of the endangered capercaillie in Scotland.
Climate Action at Ross Bay
As part of #ScotClimateWeek (29 September – 5 October 2025), we’ve been reflecting on the importance of farming practices that not only produce food but also enhance the environment. By sharing stories like ours, we hope to inspire others to take steps—big and small—that support biodiversity and climate resilience.
At Ross Bay Farm, we are committed to farming in a way that is both economically viable and environmentally responsible. By blending modern farming practices with respect for natural processes, we aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity for generations to come.
Cutting Grass for Silage at Ross Bay
Useful Links & Learn More
- Biodiversity at Ross Bay Farm
- The Farm at Ross Bay
- Conservation Grazing – Forestry and Land Scotland
- Capercaillie Biodiversity Action Plan
- Biodiversity in Scotland’s National Forests & Lands
Sileaging at Ross Farm
