SCOTLAND HAS lost seven dairy farms in the first six months of 2021, but cattle numbers are increasing.

The latest figures on dairy numbers reveal that Scotland now has a total of 836 herds, with cattle dairy cow numbers increasing by 1,611 to total 177,949, making the average herd size 213 cows – an increase of 4.

Ayrshire, Kintyre and Lanarkshire each lost two herds in the first six months of the year, whereas Dumfriesshire gained two new dairies.

The total number of cows being officially milk recorded totalled 126,762 with an average herd size of 226 cows over 71% of Scottish dairy herds.

Commenting on the latest figures, the Secretary of the Scottish Dairy Cattle Association, Janette Mathie, said: ‘Compared to this time last year there is more stability in the dairy industry with increased milk and cattle prices. Cow numbers have also increased but so has investment with new parlours and cattle housing being installed. However, we are aware of some herds who will cut back or even cease production during the next few months, giving dairy farmers throughout the country the opportunity to invest in good breeding cow families”.