Four Calves Die After Record Jersey Heatwave Leaves Herd Vulnerable to Illness

Four young cows have died at a Jersey dairy farm after extreme temperatures during last month's record-breaking heatwave left them with weakened immune systems, according to the farm.

Clairval Organic Dairy Farm said a number of its calves developed pneumonia in the aftermath of June's unprecedented heat, with four animals - Leonidas, Ahsoka, Maybelle and Dream Lady - dying despite extensive veterinary treatment.

In a statement, the farm paid tribute to the animals, saying: "They were loved, they were my joy every morning when I entered the barn, they will be deeply missed. Sleep peacefully, little ones."

The farm explained that prolonged heat stress can compromise a calf's immune system, making young animals more susceptible to infections such as pneumonia in the days following periods of extreme weather.

Jersey experienced its hottest temperature since records began in 1894 during the June heatwave, with Jersey Met recording a peak of 39.3°C (102.7°F).

The spell of hot weather, which lasted from 21 to 25 June, also saw four consecutive days where temperatures exceeded 30°C (86°F), placing significant strain on livestock across the island.