ONLY in Jersey would one of the Island’s most celebrated 18th birthdays belong not to a teenager… but to a cow.
Ellie – the matriarch of her organic dairy herd at Clairval Farm in St Saviour – hit the milestone birthday on Thursday, with the Royal Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural Society confirming shortly after that she is now officially the Island’s oldest living cow.
The grande dame retired from milking in 2022, and now spends her days grazing, sunbathing, and “being thoroughly spoiled”, according to owner and farmer Zoe Marshall.
Ms Marshall explained that reaching the age of 18 is an “exceptionally rare” milestone for a dairy cow.
She explained that Jersey cows can live to around 15 to 20 years old, but many never reach advanced age in active herds.
Ms Marshall understands that the oldest recorded Jersey cow lived to 26 years old.
Though retired, the farmer said Ellie still enjoys socialising with the main herd and visits the milking parlour every day, where she is cared for by all members of the family farm.
“We are so proud to have an 18-year-old legend still going strong in our herd, a living symbol of love, care, legacy, and the very heart of Clairval,” Ms Marshall commented.
She added: “With exceptional care, comfort, and plenty of love, these special girls can enjoy long, full lives. Ellie turning 18 is a true testament to that dedication – and to the spirit of this remarkable cow.
“We love you, Ellie.”
