Circadian rhythm research shows that behavioral data contains insights beyond reproduction and health alerts. Understanding how cows structure their day may help dairies implement better management systems that work with cows’ biological clocks.
The analysis of more than a decade of cow behavior data showed examples of strong circadian rhythms, or predictable 24-hour cycles in behavior, similar to those seen in other mammals. Sensor data revealed that cows consistently alternate between periods of feeding, rumination, activity and inactivity throughout the day. Over longer time frames, these patterns also shift with each season, reflecting the major influence of environmental cues, such as daylight and temperature.
Source: Hoard’s Dairyman, March 16, 2026. Link.
Disruptions to normal, natural circadian rhythms could contribute to immune suppression, lameness, mastitis risk, and reduced fertility.” – Bradley Heins, PhD
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