Campbell Island cattle facts for kids

Campbell Island cattle were a special kind of wild, or feral, cattle that once lived on Campbell Island, New Zealand. These cattle were domestic animals that had gone back to living in the wild. From old photos taken in 1976, it looked like they might have been partly related to a type of cattle called shorthorns. Sadly, this unique group of cattle is now extinct, meaning there are no more of them left.

Campbell Island Cattle: A Lost Breed

The Campbell Island cattle were a small, wild herd that roamed the remote Campbell Island, New Zealand. They were not a natural part of the island's wildlife. Instead, they were brought there by people. These cattle became known for living freely in the island's tough environment.

A Brief History of the Herd

Cattle first arrived on Campbell Island in 1902. They were brought along with sheep and other farm animals. This was part of a plan to start a farm on the island. However, the farming attempt did not go well.

By 1910, there were about ten cows and six bulls living on the island. These animals were allowed to roam freely. In 1931, the farming project completely failed. The cattle were left behind and became wild.

A small group of about 20 wild cattle managed to survive on the island. They lived there until the 1970s.

Why Did They Disappear?

In the 1970s, a plan was started to remove all animals that were not native to Campbell Island. These animals, like the cattle and sheep, were changing the island's natural environment. They were eating plants that native wildlife needed.

Because of this, a program was put in place to remove the introduced animals. The Campbell Island cattle were part of this program. By about 1984, all of the cattle had been removed from the island. This led to the complete extinction of the Campbell Island cattle breed.