Cows and sheep enjoy the meal at Los Vaqueros
while protecting the watershed
Los Vaqueros is home to all kinds of animals, and for most of the year sheep and cattle.
The grazing animals are brought into the watershed to chew up the grass not only for fire protection in the summer, but to keep the grass growth down for the protection of the Kit Fox habitat.
The sheep are also allowed to graze on Walnut Blvd. (another reason to watch your speed when driving within the watershed) to eat grass and weeds that grow through the asphalt.
The sheep can be put in precise locations, more so than with cattle which also graze in the watershed.
Sheep are picky eaters. They prefer to eat annual grasses, and leave alone the native grass that CCWD is trying to encourage to return to the area.
What About Cattle and Sheep On The Trails?
You may run into cattle or sheep on the trails. They are not aggressive, but they are large animals.
Here are some safety tips:
Approach cattle and sheep slowly. Most will move away as people approach on foot or bicycle.
If possible, walk around groups of cattle, not through them.
Don't approach calves, even though they may seem cute. Their moms are usually watching and will not be happy.
Avoid getting between calves and their mothers.
If you see a sick cow or sheep, please report it to our staff at the Watershed Office,Interpretive Center, Marina or the entrance gates.
The grazing animals are brought into the watershed to chew up the grass not only for fire protection in the summer, but to keep the grass growth down for the protection of the Kit Fox habitat. 
