Highland cow

I've always had trouble photographing these beasties in the past. They are never in the right setting, too far away, or they always turn the other way as soon as I press the shutter! Today I couldn't believe my luck. I was on my way back from Malham and came across six of these at the side of the road, with no fence or wall between me or them. One of them was even stood on a mound so was against the sky with no distracting background. I was tired, and my camera was in the boot so I drove on. I was annoyed with myself to let a good opportunity pass, so half a mile further up the road I stopped, got the camera out, changed lenses and drove back. They hadn't moved (I think they knew I'd be back!). I stopped just in front of them, wound the window down, and it never batted an eyelid and carried on chewing, this is too good to be true I thought! I took lots of pics, making sure they were all sharp before I drove off. I'm sure they were posing for me!

I drove off back to Settle and a bit further up the road I came across another herd. They were blocking the road and extremely reluctant to move. I had to get out of the car and practically push one really stubborn one off the road so I could pass.

Date: 22/10/07

Location: Scosthrop Moor, Settle-Malham road, Yorkshire Dales.

Photographer: Stephen Dutch