One of the objectives at Killochries is to provide a habitat for bird life, particularly protected birds, including grouse. As with all activities in Aird Farming Group, they are always striving for new ways to improve the land. A major drive to reduce processed input is being pursued, using organic matter wherever possible. The belief is that Highland Cattle have made a significant contribution to the increase in bird life by increasing the invertebrate food for birds and mammals. A hill cow will produce as much as 25% of its own body weight of insect life per season. That means a 500kg hill cow equals 125kg of insect life. The goal is to improve numbers and success of ground nesting birds in the area. All these regenerative practices have the effect of building topsoil, improving the organic content in the soil, and capturing carbon from the atmosphere. The wildlife is thriving with regular sightings of curlews and lapwings, among others. Ground that was once waterlogged has been transformed through drainage and paddock grazing the cattle. The work is ongoing, but as more paddocks are created with new fencing, improvements are seen year upon year. Every year an event takes place, open to all within the agricultural community and anyone locally who wishes to attend. This event showcases all that is done at Killochries, including conservation work and the systems used to graze the cattle outdoors on the hill all year round. This event is very well attended and well received. There is a lot of interest in this method of farming alongside all the discussions that are born through alternative methods of farming alongside conservation efforts. Iain is passionate about both indigenous cattle and conservation, and this passion is evident to the community.