Bali volcano latest: Eruption fears spark desperate scramble to save cows from Mount Agung

The Bali volcano presents a clear threat to Indonesia’s wild and domesticated animals, especially the region’s famous cattle. 

Huge herds of cows who graze on the lethal slopes of Mount Agung could be wiped out in an eruption, with villagers now desperately attempting to coax them off the mountainside. 

Around 140,000 locals were forced to flee the area when officials warned an eruption was imminent. 

Experts believe there are around 20,000 cows on the slopes of Mount Agunes, after their terrified owners were forced to abandon them. 

Some owners, including Wayan Sudarma, have now returned in an attempt to rescue his animals from the so-called ‘red zone’. 

He told Japan Times: “These are the only valuable belongings that are left in this situation.

“That’s why we have to save them, so they can sustain our lives as farmers and remain our pride.”

Mr Sudarma has set up a shelter with the help of local officials which can hold 700 cows – far more than the 21 he personally owns. He has currently rescued 200. 

He said: “Im really glad there’s such a place. 

“This place is the safest place for the cattle because their health and food is being taken care of by the local government.

READ MORE: Bali volcano Mount Agung eruption LIVE

“The point of putting them here is to save the Balinese cow.”

Bali’s cows are renowned for their genetic variety, making them immune to many diseases. 

They are also well-suited to living in close contact with humans and can survive well on low-quality food. 

READ MORE: Bali volcano – fears grow after ANOTHER volcano erupts

And even more worrying are the people not only refusing to leave the area but actually climbing the peak to look at the volcano. 

Video has emerged of people clambering up the mountain to watch the smoking crater up close. 

Authorities have pleaded with people to stay away until the volcano has been declared safe.