The ongoing advancements in animal stewardship at the farm or ranch level, are fascinating as they are revealed. Sadly, the public often holds an Old MacDonald point of view about animal care. Dairy and cattle producers are continually observing and working toward solutions to limiting production factors that ultimately improve animal health and stewardship.
Brian Dougherty discusses bunching behavior, its causes and solutions. Careful observation of cattle behavior can solve cattle bunching.
Source: Progressive Dairy, July 15, 2021. Link. Dougherty says bunching is a natural response to stress and alleviating that stress will help prevent bunching.
Implement heat abatement strategies, provide plenty of fresh air and water, control fly populations and reduce variation in light intensity to reduce stress and prevent cattle bunching.” – Brian Dougherty
Also see: The importance of observation in cattle handling, The Beef Site, July 21, 2021. Link. Cows are sensitive to what they see and wary of anything they perceive as harmful. Once they’re frightened, it takes 20 to 30 minutes for them to calm down.
INSIGHTS: Whether dairy or beef, observing cattle and discerning the cause of their behaviors requires a keen eye and time leaning on a gate just watching. Veterinarians and sales reps can learn a lot and educate clients by simply watching closely with a producer on a call.