Sheep stranded on cliffs due to livestock worrying incident

It is thought the sheep were panicked by a dog (Photo: RSPCA Cymru)
It is thought the sheep were panicked by a dog (Photo: RSPCA Cymru)

An operation to save a flock of sheep at the bottom of coastal cliffs in Wales could take 'a few days' to complete, rescuers have said.

More than sixty sheep were stranded at the bottom of the cliffs at Mathry, Pembrokeshire, on Monday 1 April.

It is thought a livestock worrying incident involving a dog chased the sheep down the cliffs.

So far, as of Wednesday 3 April, fire crews and RSPCA teams have managed to rescue over 40 sheep.

But dozens remain at the bottom, with rescuers saying the tricky operation could take 'a few days' to finish.

Due to the steepness of the cliff, thought to be around 70-80 metres high, they were unable to get back up themselves and have been spread over a wide area in groups.

(Photo: RSPCA Cymru)
(Photo: RSPCA Cymru)

RSPCA Cymru are describing it as a 'complex and difficult' operation because of the number of sheep involved.

A spokesperson for the animal welfare charity said: “Due to this being a complex and potentially difficult rescue – because of the large numbers of animals involved – it is expected to take a few days.

“Once again RSPCA Cymru would like to remind dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead around livestock and wildlife.”

The incident has reiterated calls for further public awareness on the consequences of livestock worrying.