Whistlebare is more than a working farm it is our home. We try to farm as empathetically as possible with no artificial inputs or rearing methods. We find that an holistic approach to farming, animal welfare and the environment gives us contented livestock in a beautiful and abundant landscape.

Pastures

The pastures we grow are rich in deep rooting herbs, legumes, and grasses which provide all the nutritional requirements of our cattle. They also improve soil fertility and structure giving a better habitat for earth worms and other fauna. Grasses and herbs form a large part of our pigs’ diet too and allow them to “root” to their hearts’ content.

Hedgerows

We are planting and restoring several kilometres of hedgerows to create shelter for our livestock. These also provide habitat for wildlife that help to control pests in our crops.

Animal Psychology

We seek to reduce our animals’ stress wherever possible. We rear them in family groups, allow natural weaning, keep them in an environment in which they are content and handle them quietly. We transport our animals to slaughter ourselves, in groups, to the nearest abattoir. The resulting meat is both tender and tasty!