West Word - March 2026

It’s all been about calves this month. A few girls have appeared which is good news and some particularly nice looking calves have joined the herd. The farm team are very happy despite most of the calves being born in less than ideal weather. The cows weren’t very cooperative either; choosing to give the team a bunch of surprises instead of a bunch of warnings. 

Evergreen Rabbit Control were here on island for a week at the start of the month to carry out the annual rabbit control program. The team managed to get around 1000 rabbits which made a significant dent in the problem. All rabbits culled go on to be used in other industries and so none are wasted. Thanks to the team for all their hard work and professionalism. 

The farm team is gearing up for lambing. The new lambing shed has been kitted out and will provide much needed extra space for expectant ewes and lambs. Bales of straw have been arriving, pens assembled and sheep gathered. 

The weather this month has been diabolical. Squally showers and blustery winds mean you have to pick the right time to go outside to move from building to building. We can see the weather fronts marching across the sea from the West so we do have some warning but still, most of us have gotten a thorough soaking at some point. The rain brings the mud…so much mud. Daffodils have been bashed. 

We had our annual visit from Wind & Sun who look after our renewables system. Steve and Martin were here for three days looking at any issues and making plans for our upcoming upgrades to various parts of the grid. 

We have welcomed two new residents to the island. Freddie and Kana Brice have arrived to take over Cafe Canna. The cafe has been a hive of activity as they get it ready for the season ahead. The Cafe plans to be open from 1st April. Welcome Freddie and Kana!