The latest RBST Watchlist has placed the ancient White Park cattle breed in the Priority category due to a significant decline in registrations, which fell by over 36% in 2025 compared to 2022. This downward trend, coupled with a decrease in the breed’s Effective Population Size, raises serious concerns about genetic diversity and long-term survival. Once nearly extinct in the 1960s, White Park cattle have been carefully restored and are valued today for premium beef and conservation grazing, but challenges such as managing horned animals and limited abattoir access hinder their wider adoption.

RBST chief executive Christopher Price emphasized the breed’s importance to sustainable farming and biodiversity, urging Defra to enhance support through agricultural and environmental policies. Other native breeds like Original Population Lincoln Red cattle and Boreray sheep also face increased risk, while some breeds such as Native Aberdeen Angus have seen growth. Despite some positive signs, RBST stresses that ongoing vigilance, awareness, and financial backing are crucial to safeguarding the UK’s rare livestock genetics for the future.