A man was forced to scramble up a tree and await rescue after being confronted by an angry cow while walking his dog in Whiteley Bank this morning (Wednesday).
The unexpected incident unfolded on a public footpath when the man spotted an escaped calf nearby.
A cow – believed to be the calf’s mother – charged through a fence, acting protectively and leaving the man no choice but to climb a tree for safety.
Control room operators at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service kept in contact with the man throughout the ordeal, which took place shortly before 09:30.
Fire crews from Shanklin and Newport were mobilised to the scene, spending around 90 minutes in attendance.
On arrival, firefighters discovered the distressed man still perched in the tree with the agitated cow stationed directly beneath him.
The farmer was called to the location and successfully managed to coax both the cow and calf into a nearby field.
With the path finally clear, the man was able to descend and reunite with his dog, who had been waiting nearby.
A spokesperson for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has said:
“Animals we come across regularly in our countryside, such as cows and horses, have strong maternal instincts to protect their young, so it is vital to keep your distance.
“When out walking in the countryside, in fields or areas that contain livestock try not to get too close and always keep your dog on a lead. If you feel threatened by an animal, remain calm and find a safe place”.
Fire crews from Shanklin and Newport were mobilised to the scene, spending around 90 minutes in attendance.
waste of resources – was the tree on fire, no, the man climbed up there and could climb back down again.
over reaction as usual
It’s so easy to criticise when not personally involved. A large, frantic animal trying (quite rightly) to save her baby from perceived danger. A dog walker in the wrong place at the wrong time. Fortunately it appears no harm occurred to anyone at the scene, as these situations appear to happen freqently, despite expert advice as to how to behave when encountering livestock, who consider dogs (especially) as a threat.
I actual know this person, so get your fscts right
What a pointless comment
When I read the headline, I thought that it was a story about Two Tier Keir the Granny Harmer and his nemesis Angela!