Bovine Blockages!

[skelo]

Not for the first time, Today I found myself on a cycle path across a common, blocked by a herd of grazing cows. When it has happened before I have been able to swerve onto grass and go around. but this time there was no way around. I find it hard to stand, let alone walk and it is a bit intimidating sat down low on my trike looking up at a herd of cows. so I chickened out and turned around for a long detour.

There have been reports of walkers being chased/crushed etc. I'm not worried about traffic or HGV's but looking for any tips for herding/shooing cows for a townie like me? Or did I do the right thing?

[climo]

I find that shouting moves them. If you have a stick then whirl it around - they get the message. The important thing is never let them surround you as the rear ones push the front ones onto you. I'd avoid large herds of youngsters though as they get excited.
Only once been through through a herd on a trike and loud shouting and keeping moving shifted them. Bit like people.

No doubt someone with more knowledge will say I'm wrong but its always worked for me.

[PDQ Mobile]

Not for the first time, Today I found myself on a cycle path across a common, blocked by a herd of grazing cows. When it has happened before I have been able to swerve onto grass and go around. but this time there was no way around. I find it hard to stand, let alone walk and it is a bit intimidating sat down low on my trike looking up at a herd of cows. so I chickened out and turned around for a long detour.

There have been reports of walkers being chased/crushed etc. I'm not worried about traffic or HGV's but looking for any tips for herding/shooing cows for a townie like me? Or did I do the right thing?

I think it's difficult to give a definitive answer.
Much depends on the cows!

If you have restricted mobility then there is little doubt that they could present a danger to you.

Observe their reactions to you and their general "demeanor" (can cows have demeanor!?).

Cows are very curious animals. The trike may be an object of interest.
The fact that you are low down, and hence appear small in their eyes, may make them somewhat bolder.
I think you were correct to be wary.

[Paulatic]

If in doubt turn about is probably the best advice.
To be confident you have to first identify correctly what type of bovine you’ve encountered.
1 suckler cows...with or without calves and if with, what age calves, what breed and how are their eyes looking.
2 dairy cows should never be a problem some dairy bulls can be though.
3 dairy heifers or bullocks can be very inquisitive and very used to humans. Not usually a danger, apart from licking you to death, but some people find them very intimidating if there are 40 of them following you in close quarters.
4 Beef animals bullocks or replacement heifers are usually aloof but can be unpredictable and have a bit of a gang culture. If they were to get you on the floor they’ll knock you about like a bale of straw and I’ve known farmers not survive. Keep your feet and wave a stick they’ll be off into the distance.
5 Bull Beef not usually in fields when they get to the dangerous age.

[AlaninWales]

If in doubt turn about is probably the best advice.
To be confident you have to first identify correctly what type of bovine you’ve encountered.
1 suckler cows...with or without calves and if with, what age calves, what breed and how are their eyes looking.
2 dairy cows should never be a problem some dairy bulls can be though.
3 dairy heifers or bullocks can be very inquisitive and very used to humans. Not usually a danger, apart from licking you to death, but some people find them very intimidating if there are 40 of them following you in close quarters.
4 Beef animals bullocks or replacement heifers are usually aloof but can be unpredictable and have a bit of a gang culture. If they were to get you on the floor they’ll knock you about like a bale of straw and I’ve known farmers not survive. Keep your feet and wave a stick they’ll be off into the distance.
5 Bull Beef not usually in fields when they get to the dangerous age.

+!
and
6 Stud bulls are frequently not socialised and have been known to deliberately corner and lean on their handlers. Treat with extreme caution (and correct handling equipment).

[Spinners]

I find that shouting "Moooooove, I'm on for a Strava segment PB" helps.

[nigelnightmare]

I find that shouting "Moooooove, I'm on for a Strava segment PB" helps.

With "cows" or "people"?