White Park cattle, one of Britain’s oldest native breeds, have been placed in the highest-risk “Priority” category by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) due to a sharp 36.3% decline in calf registrations between 2022 and 2025. This decline, coupled with a reduction in genetic diversity, raises serious concerns about the breed’s survival and the loss of valuable native genetics important for sustainable farming, conservation grazing, and agricultural heritage. The RBST is calling for increased government support and incentives to help reverse this trend and protect these culturally and historically significant cattle.

The RBST’s latest Watchlist also highlights other native breeds facing similar risks, including Lincoln Red cattle, Boreray sheep, and Hackney horses, while some breeds like Aberdeen Angus and Gloucester cattle show encouraging growth. The report underscores the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts to preserve the UK’s native livestock diversity, which plays a crucial role in regenerative agriculture, biodiversity, and food chain resilience.