Beach-Loving Cows Enjoy a Dip in South Africa (PHOTOS)

Cows are much more similar to humans than we might think. These incredible animals have best friends and get stressed when they’re separated. Mother cows and calves share a special bond and they have individualized calls for one another. Plus, cows are even known to get moody and hold grudges. Yup, that sounds pretty familiar to us!

And it turns out that cows also share our love for lounging on the beach! These beach-loving bovines from South Africa are giving a new meaning to “happy cows,” free to spend their days running across the sand and soaking up some rays.

Photographer Christopher Rimmer spent the last year studying the bizarre habits of cattle along the coast of South Africa.

What “utter” beach babes!

These cows, from Pondoland, are known for making frequent trips to the beach.

Old records from sailors suggest that these cows have been making this journey since the 16th-century.

There is something about the contrast between the cow and the water that is extremely surreal, but also incredibly touching.

According to Rimmer, the cows sleep in barns overnight and are set free in the mornings. They spend the days splashing around in the ocean, returning home mid-day to be milked. 

These bulls are totally the cattle equivalent to beach juiceheads.

And cue the “Bay Watch” theme music …

Nothing to see here, just a steer taking a leisurely stroll.

“Ah, there’s nothing like the feeling of sand between your hooves!”

“The ocean waves really moo-ve me.” (Yes, we have no shame.)

You know how you and your friends all play chicken until one finally dunks their heads in the water … totally what these cows are about to do.

We don’t know about you, but we think these might actually be the happiest cows on Earth.

All image source: Christopher Rimmer