A bull named Liam, who made headlines after surprising city residents with his unexpected jaunt through Birmingham, has been successfully rehomed at Norfolk's Hillside Animal Sanctuary. The two-year-old bull was first spotted running along New Bond Street in Digbeth shortly before 9.30 am, prompting alarm among passers-by as it seemingly fled from an abattoir. Birmingham City Council staff quickly stepped in, corralling the “beautiful albeit misplaced” animal and keeping both the bull and the public safe until animal welfare professionals could assess the situation.

Wendy Valentine, founder of Hillside Animal Sanctuary, reported that they were alerted to Liam's plight through multiple calls from concerned supporters eager to provide assistance. After discussions with Birmingham police, they assured authorities that they could offer the bull a secure and compassionate home. With no one stepping forward to claim him, police granted permission for the sanctuary to collect Liam, who arrived in the early hours of Saturday, welcomed by a spacious environment alongside 750 other rescued cattle.

Upon his arrival, video footage captured Liam happily munching hay in his new surroundings, a marked contrast to his chaotic day in the city. Councillor Majid Mahmood, Birmingham’s cabinet member for environment and transport, commended the efforts of the public servants involved. He expressed gratitude on social media, stating, “Well done to our animal welfare staff & park rangers,” highlighting their quick action to ensure both the bull's safety and that of the local citizens.

Liam's escapade is not unique; other bulls have wandered through urban areas in Britain under similar circumstances. Notably, in May 2020, a bull that escaped from an abattoir in the Sparkbrook area caused significant disruptions, leading to its eventual capture by police after about thirty minutes of running through the streets. Fortunately, in contrast to other incidents where bulls have faced dire outcomes, such as the tragic fate of a bull in Wales that was deemed dangerous and subsequently euthanised, Liam has found refuge and hope for a long life ahead.

This incident resonates with a growing public fascination for animal welfare in urban settings. Just last year, a large mechanical bull from the Birmingham Commonwealth Games was saved from being dismantled following a public petition, demonstrating the emotional connection people have with these animals. Such incidents not only highlight the compassionate actions of sanctuaries like Hillside but also underline the need for continued discussions around animal rights and welfare, particularly for those at risk of exploitation.

With Liam now secure, animal advocates are hopeful that his story will encourage better practices regarding the treatment of livestock and raise awareness about the importance of animal sanctuaries. As he settles into life in Norfolk, Liam serves as a poignant reminder of both the challenges faced by animals in our urban landscapes and the opportunities offered by dedicated sanctuaries committed to providing them with safe havens.

📌 Reference Map:

Source: Noah Wire Services