Farmer's Unusual Solution to Overzealous Influencers: Making His Cows Less Cute
Influencers Won’t Stop Harassing Man’s Cows, So He Plans to Make Them Uglier
Vice News
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Alex Birch, a farmer in Baslow Edge, Derbyshire, is facing harassment from influencers drawn to his photogenic Highland cattle. To deter visitors, he plans to crossbreed his cows with a less attractive breed, aiming to reduce their appeal over the next six years.
- 01Alex Birch's Highland cattle have become popular with influencers and tourists.
- 02He plans to crossbreed them to make them less photogenic.
- 03Birch has reported TikTok videos promoting his cattle but received no action.
- 04Concerns over safety and liability have prompted this unusual solution.
- 05His grandfather, who introduced the breed locally, is not fully supportive of the plan.
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Alex Birch, a farmer from Baslow Edge, Derbyshire, is struggling with the influx of tourists and influencers attracted to his Highland cattle, known for their shaggy coats and charming looks. Visitors have been engaging in activities such as hugging the cows and filming videos, which Birch finds disruptive. After attempting to report TikTok videos that seem to invite more visitors without success, he has decided to crossbreed his cattle with the less attractive whitebred shorthorn. This 'de-beautification' process is expected to take about six years. Birch's grandfather, David Thorp, who introduced the Highland breed to the area in the 1970s, is concerned about the decision, as the herd has become a local institution. Birch is motivated by the potential legal liabilities from tourist interactions, as the Peak District National Park Authority has warned against close contact with cattle due to safety risks. Despite his efforts, the appeal of his cows remains strong, leading him to take this drastic measure.
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This situation highlights the challenges farmers face with tourism and social media, potentially affecting local agricultural practices and safety regulations.
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