Types Of Cattle Research Articles

Adult Cattle Unit based Fodder Model for Supplementing Round the Year Green Fodder in Irrigated Subtropics of Jammu and Kashmir: A Review

Ensuring year-round provision of green fodder for a single adult cattle unit poses a significant challenge, especially in regions with distinct seasons. However, with careful planning and the use of a variety of forage crops including legumes, grains and perennial grasses, it is possible to maintain a consistent supply of green fodder. Factors such as cattle type, weight, activity levels and the nutritional quality of the fodder all influence the amount of green fodder required by adult cattle. Adequate green fodder intake is crucial for meeting their nutritional needs and maintaining optimal health and productivity. This underscores the importance of exploring sustainable strategies for year-round green fodder provision highlighting the vital role of forage crop diversity in meeting the dietary needs of adult cattle. The research experiment took place at the Research Farm of the Division of Agronomy, SKUAST- Jammu spanning two consecutive years from 2020-2021 to 2021-2022. The experimental layout consisted of eight treatments arranged in three staggered configurations during both kharif and rabi seasons alongside perennial fodders planted along the borders. The design employed a randomized block design (RBD) and was replicated three times. Significantly higher system productivity was recorded with Multicut Bajra + Cowpea - Berseem + Oats with Root slips of Napier planted in July. Multicut Sorghum + Cowpea - Lucerne + Oat with stem cuttings of Setaria planted in January recorded maximum land requirement for 1 ACU and 10 ACU’s whereas minimum land requirement for 1 ACU and 10 ACU’s was observed in Multicut Bajra + Maize - Berseem + Barley with root slips of Napier planted in July.

275 Frequency of chronic passive congestive livers at harvest in the Texas Panhandle and the association with carcass outcomes

Abstract Chronic passive congestive (CPC) livers are reported as one of the most common clinical signs of right-sided Bovine Congestive Heart Failure (BCHF). Frequency of CPC livers at harvest and the associated loss of offal and carcass value does not appear in the literature. Our objectives were to 1) quantify the frequency of CPC livers at harvest within the Texas Panhandle, and 2) evaluate the association with offal and carcass outcomes. Audits were performed over the duration of a production week (both harvest shifts) per each large commercial beef processing facility (4 total) in the Texas Panhandle. West Texas A&M University trained personnel identified CPC (large blue) livers at evisceration and documented heart score (HS; scale 1 = normal to 5 = extreme structural changes), liver weight, USDA-FSIS inspection fate (U.S. Inspected & Passed; U.S. Condemned) of the liver, remaining viscera, and carcass. Other visual observations (sex, predominant black hair coat color, carcass/visceral edema, liver abscesses) were noted. 1) Frequency data were documented among cattle-type populations: sex (steers, heifers, cows, bulls), and phenotype [native, dairy-cross, dairy, category-B (Mexico-origin)]. 2) Carcass and lot identification were collected for the purpose of tracking and obtaining carcass grading data. Of carcasses deemed wholesome-U.S. Inspected & Passed, USDA yield and quality metrics [hot carcass weight (HCW), 12th-rib fat thickness (FT), ribeye area (REA), marbling score (MS)] of those identified with CPC, as well as data for the balance of respective lots were collected. Carcass outcomes of those exhibiting a CPC liver were compared with the outcomes of remaining lot. Frequency data were analyzed via chi-square. Carcass data were analyzed using mixed models, where occurrence of CPC liver was the fixed effect; facility, cattle type, and sex were random effects. A total of 83,527 animals were audited, with a CPC liver frequency of 0.17% (n = 144). Frequencies among sex (steer = 0.16%; heifer = 0.17%; cow = 0.33%; P < 0.01) and phenotypes (native = 0.15%; category-B = 0.04%; dairy cross = 0.14%; P = 0.01) were documented. Heart scores ranged from 1 to 4, with HS 3 occurring most frequently [HS 1 (n = 2); HS 2 (n = 39); HS 3 (n = 62); HS 4 (n = 17)]. Weights of CPC livers ranged from 7.3 kg to 34.4 kg; the heaviest CPC livers were recorded in cows (mean = 17.2 kg; P < 0.01). Despite USDA-FSIS guidelines, 2.08% of CPC livers were U.S. Inspected & Passed, along with 16.90% of viscera and 84.03% of carcasses. Cow carcasses encountered the greatest U.S. Condemn-rates (38.24%) among the sex categories. Within the fed-beef population, natives were the only category resulting in U.S. Condemned carcasses (10.64%). All carcass outcomes were decreased (P ≤ 0.01) by CPC livers.

407 Transition from the ranch to the feedyard: Challenges and management strategies to improve calf health welfare and performance

Abstract The health, welfare and performance of newly received feedlot calves is intricately connected to their pre- and post-weaning management as well as how they are transitioned from the ranch to the feedyard. Industry data suggest that despite prophylactic antimicrobial use in receiving calves the incidence of respiratory related morbidity and mortality has remained unchanged in Canadian feedyards for the past 4 decades. It is well established that any management practice causing stress or pain has an immunosuppressive effect thereby increasing the risk of calf morbidity and mortality and reducing performance efficiency. There are several factors that could contribute to this including, if and or how preconditioning is conducted, comingling at assembly yards or auctions and number of calf sources, and the distance calves are transported and the effects of rest. The impacts of other timely and relevant factors such as environmental conditions (rapid and extreme weather/temperature changes) and cattle type (dairy beef or dairy beef cross) will also be covered. Studies assessing these impacts on receiving calf health, welfare and performance as well as potential strategies for mitigating negative effects will be discussed.

A Whole Range of Cattle-An Isotopic Perspective on Roman Animal Husbandry in Lower Austria and Burgenland (Austria).

In this study, we try to combine traditional archaeozoological biometry, based on outer bone measurements, with stable isotope analyses of bone collagen. Right from the start of archaeozoological research in Central and Western Europe, the important size variability in Roman domestic cattle has puzzled scholars. According to an established view, these differences in bone size are attributed either to the simultaneous presence of different types or even breeds or to the result of crossbreeding of smaller, native, and larger Roman cattle. Likewise, the episodic import of large-sized animals has been considered. First, we selected thirty proximal phalanges of cattle from three sites including five archaeological contexts from eastern Austria (Roman provinces of Noricum and Pannonia). The bone sample comprised the whole hitherto observed metric variability in Roman provincial cattle, and we tried to include minimal and maximal specimens. The results from stable isotope analyses (δ15N, δ13C, δ18O, δ2H) carried out on thirty proximal phalanges indicated that isotope signals were rather site-specific and, generally, not related to bone size. Therefore, we conclude that at least in the area investigated, small and large cattle types were raised and herded in the same areas and not spatially separated. There are, however, uncertain indicators of intra-site differences in isotope signals related to bone size, which should be checked on much larger sample sets.

Estimating methane emissions from manure: a suitable case for treatment?

Abstract Methane from livestock is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. Under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Annex I countries’ National Inventories report emissions from cattle as enteric or from manure management at ratios of between 3:1 and 9:1 depending on country and cattle type. Field research generally supports the inventories’ assumptions about enteric emissions, but these ratios have focused interest on enteric emissions and diverted attention away from those from manure management. Official calculations about manure management emissions factors are more varied than those for enteric emissions and evidence from field measurements suggests inventories may be underestimating manure management emissions especially in the dairy sector. This paper has three objectives. First, it reviews the science underpinning the international framework for estimating methane emissions from manure management. Second, it presents data from two dairy farms in south-west England where measured emissions of methane from slurry storage facilities are found to be four to five times greater than the assumptions in the UK’s inventory. If these measurements were representative of the UK, the implication is that total methane emissions from the UK dairy herd would be over 40% greater than the level reported to the UNFCCC and the proportion of total methane emissions from dairy cows arising from manure management would be almost a half rather than less than a quarter. Finally, the paper assesses the potential value if methane were captured from slurry storage facilities. Its value as a biogas is estimated to be £500 million per year for the UK dairy industry (at forecourt diesel prices). The paper concludes that the scale of emissions and the potential economic value of lost biogas are sufficient to warrant urgent research and action to reduce emissions from manure management with the beneficial prospect that a valuable new income stream for farm businesses could also be realised.

Assessment of breeding and genetic parameters of milk productivity indicators of zebu cows-a prominent type of black-and-white breed

The article presents the results of an evaluation of the breeding and genetic parameters of milk productivity and breeding qualities of zeboid-type black-and-white cows. The level of coefficient of variability, interrelation and coefficient of heritability of indicators of dairy productivity of cows for the first, third and highest lactation in the herd of the Experimental station “Snegiri” — a branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution of Science “N.V. Tsitsin Main Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences” (Istra district, Moscow region) has been established. Currently, the herd at the experimental station consists of hybrid cattle created by crossbreeding black-and-white cattle with various zeboid subspecies (New Zealand, Indian, Azerbaijani, and Cuban), as well as with purebred Holstein-Friesians. As a result of extensive breeding work involving distant hybridization, unique animals have been developed that exhibit increased disease resistance, significant adaptive potential, and are undemanding in terms of feed and housing conditions under intensive milk production technology. Generally, the milk from zeboidtype black-and-white cattle is characterized by a comparatively higher concentration of nutrients — fats, proteins, milk sugar, and essential amino acids. The high nutritional value of the milk, combined with the enhanced adaptive abilities, characterizes the zeboid-type black-and-white cattle as potentially valuable animals, making breeding work with them justifiably highly relevant. The evaluation of breeding and genetic parameters will help uncover the potential for milk productivity, determine the directions for breeding work, and adjust selection methods to further enhance production and improve the breeding qualities of this type of dairy cattle.

ACADEMICIAN V. P. BURKAT (1939–2009) – FOUNDER OF MODERN THEORY AND METHODOLOGY OF BREEDING, ORGANIZER OF RESEARCH WORK IN ANIMAL HUSBANDRY IN UKRAINE (to the 85th anniversary of the birthday)

The purpose of the article is to reconstruct the major life milestones and creative path of the recognized scientist in the field of animal husbandry, Doctor of Agricultural Sciences, Professor, Academician of UAAS V. P. Burkat. Research methods are general scientific (analysis, synthesis, classification), special historical (problematic-chronological, comparative-historical), biographical and source studies. The contribution of the scientist to the development of theoretical and methodological principles of breeding, selection, and biotechnology of reproduction of farm animals is substantiated. The important role of V. P. Burkat in the organization of domestic research work in animal husbandry, in particular, in the formation of the Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics named after M.V. Zubets NAAS was proven. The scientific heritage of the scientist is systematized, the priority of his research on the formation of a systematic concept of the breed, linear breeding, development of genetic and biotechnological bases of selection in animal husbandry, the actualization of the problem of conservation and rational use of the farm animals, etc. is substantiated. The contribution of V. P. Burkat to the formation of the modern theory and methodology of breeding in dairy and beef cattle breeding, the breeding of specialized breeds and types of cattle is revealed. It is shown that among his scientist's methodological developments, the most significant is the method of creating the Ukrainian Red-and-White Dairy breed, which is the basis for the development of other specialized domestic breeds of dairy and beef production directions. The program of activities and achievements of established by V.P. Burkat of the scientific school "Breeding and Biotechnology in Animal Husbandry" is summarized. The scholar's scientific search for the popularization and representation of the history of agricultural science in Ukraine is highlighted.

Studi Morfologi Kelenjar Aksesoris Kelamin Jantan Sapi Sumba Ongole (Bos indicus)

Sumba Ongole cattle are one of the local types of cattle that are most commonly found in Indonesia. Bulls have accessory gland are ampulla, vesicular glands, prostate glands, and bulbourethral glands. The aim of this research is to determine the anatomical morphology and histology of male accessory glands in Sumba Ongole cattle. The research sample was six Sumba Ongole cattle that had been slaughtered at the East Sumba Regency Slaughterhouse. Macroscopic examination carried out tissue fixation in 10% formalin, tissue processing, and hematoxylin-eosin staining. The results of the research show that the male accessory glands in Sumba Ongole cattle have the ampullary gland, vesicular gland, prostate gland and bulbourethral gland.. Microscopically, each gland is covered by a capsule and has a secretory gland. The ampullary secretory glands are lined by cylindrical epithelium and have a serous type. The secretory glands of the vesicular glands are lined with cylindrical epithelium and have a seromucous type, the secretory glands of the prostate gland are lined with cuboidal epithelium and have a seromucous type, and the secretory glands of the bulbourethral glands are lined by cuboidal epithelium and have the mucous type.

Feed Management of Beef Cattle Smallholder Farmer in the Conservation Area of Madura Beef Cattle

Abstract Indonesia has consistently failed to achieve its meat self-sufficiency target in 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2014. Precisely during this period, the volume and value of feeder cattle and meat imports increased. One of the causes of failure to achieve the self-sufficiency target is still not achieving economic efficiency. The central and local governments have made efforts to implement the national cattle development roadmap. However, smallholder farmers, who account for 95% of the total farmers in Indonesia, are still subsistence. On the other hand, the beef cattle business cost is very high compared to the average daily gain achieved. The study’s objectives are: 1) to characterize the type of Madura beef cattle in terms of feed patterns, 2) to analyze the portion of feed budget, 3) to analyze the factors influencing the variation of food intake. The analytical method uses: 1) descriptive analysis, 2) explorative analysis and 3. regression analysis. The research results show five types of Madura Beef cattle: Sonok, Taccek, Breeder, Fattening, and cow. Body size and supplementation have a significant effect on the food intake.

Polymorphism of Cyt-b Gene in Several Indonesian Cattle Using PCR-RFLP Method

The cytochrome b (Cyt-b) gene is one of the genes that is located in the mitochondrial DNA. Variations in the Cyt-b gene can be used to compare different animal species to investigate the origin of certain animal species. This study aimed to assess the genetic diversity of Indonesian local cattle breeds, including Bali cattle as an Indonesian native cattle breed and Banteng as the wild type of Bali cattle, using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). A total of 336 individual DNA samples from Indonesian cattle breeds were analyzed in this study. The RFLP method using three restriction enzymes, i.e., HinfI, HaeIII, or XbaI, was used to identify the variation of the Cyt-b gene. The Cyt-b gene was polymorphic based on the PCR-RFLP method. There were six alleles of the Cyt-b gene found in this study, i.e., A and B allele (HinfI), C and D allele (HaeIII), X and Y allele (XbaI). All alleles can be found in Pasundan, Madura, and PO cattle. Pesisir cattle have the highest allele frequency D. The UPGMA results showed three clusters of Indonesian native cattle in this study. Cluster 1 consists of Pasundan, Banteng, and Bali cattle. Cluster 2 consists of Madura, PO, and SO cattle. Pesisir was separated from other cattle in cluster 3. The X allele could become an indicator to distinguish Banteng and Bali cattle.

Genomic Diversity of the Retinta Breed Derived from Two Ancestral Bovine Lineages.

The Retinta breed, an autochthonous type of Spanish beef cattle, is highly adapted to breeding in its natural environment, which is characterized by a Mediterranean climate. The origins of this breed can be traced to two ancestral bovine stocks, which gave rise to distinct morphotypes differentiated primarily by coat color, alongside other significant traits such as growth, morphological conformation and temperament. Specifically, one morphotype comprises blond animals (Rubia Andaluza), genetically resembling the ancestral Bos taurus Aquitanicus, while the other encompasses brown- and red-colored animals (Retinta Extremeña) originating from Bos taurus Turdenatus stock. Over decades, these populations have undergone hybridization, leading to a unified population, albeit with the original subpopulations largely maintaining their genetic integrity. The objective of this study was to undertake genealogical and genomic characterization of these genetic lines, including a particular subpopulation within the blond animals (Tamarona cow). To achieve this, the genealogical records of 22,004 active animals were analyzed, and over 63,000 SNPs from a total of 1030 animals were examined for genomic characterization. Genealogical analysis revealed pedigree completeness and a high level of effective population size (Ne) across the entire population, yet relatively low Ne values within each pure line (ranging from 28.38 to 34.47). These findings underscore the ongoing efforts of the National Association of Retinta Breeders (ACRE) over the past decades to mitigate the loss of variability in this breed. The genomic characterization highlights the persistent differences within the original population and the predominant influence of the Retinto line within the current breed, as evidenced by principal component analysis (PCA) and admixture analysis. Furthermore, the identification of the Tamarona subpopulation within the blond lineage underlines its unique genetic composition, warranting its recognition as an official genetic line within the current Retinta breed. Given the small population size of these lines, particularly the Tamarona subpopulation, protective measures are imperative to preserve this distinct gene pool. Such measures would enhance the genetic diversity of the Retinta breed, which is essential for sustainable breeding practices in its natural habitats.

Modeling of Ethiopian Beef Meat Marbling Score Using Image Processing for Rapid Meat Grading.

Meat characterized by a high marbling value is typically anticipated to display enhanced sensory attributes. This study aimed to predict the marbling scores of rib-eye, steaks sourced from the Longissimus dorsi muscle of different cattle types, namely Boran, Senga, and Sheko, by employing digital image processing and machine-learning algorithms. Marbling was analyzed using digital image processing coupled with an extreme gradient boosting (GBoost) machine learning algorithm. Meat texture was assessed using a universal texture analyzer. Sensory characteristics of beef were evaluated through quantitative descriptive analysis with a trained panel of twenty. Using selected image features from digital image processing, the marbling score was predicted with R2 (prediction) = 0.83. Boran cattle had the highest fat content in sirloin and chuck cuts (12.68% and 12.40%, respectively), followed by Senga (11.59% and 11.56%) and Sheko (11.40% and 11.17%). Tenderness scores for sirloin and chuck cuts differed among the three breeds: Boran (7.06 ± 2.75 and 3.81 ± 2.24, respectively), Senga (5.54 ± 1.90 and 5.25 ± 2.47), and Sheko (5.43 ± 2.76 and 6.33 ± 2.28 Nmm). Sheko and Senga had similar sensory attributes. Marbling scores were higher in Boran (4.28 ± 1.43 and 3.68 ± 1.21) and Senga (2.88 ± 0.69 and 2.83 ± 0.98) compared to Sheko (2.73 ± 1.28 and 2.90 ± 1.52). The study achieved a remarkable milestone in developing a digital tool for predicting marbling scores of Ethiopian beef breeds. Furthermore, the relationship between quality attributes and beef marbling score has been verified. After further validation, the output of this research can be utilized in the meat industry and quality control authorities.

Microscopic and molecular epidemiology of gastrointestinal nematodes in dairy and beef cattle in Pak Chong district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand.

Gastrointestinal (GI) nematode infection remains an important problem in livestock, particularly cattle. The infection may lead to serious health complications and affect animal products. The objective of this study was to investigate GI nematode infection and its associated risk factors in dairy and beef cattle farmed in Pak Chong District of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, northeast Thailand. Fecal specimens were collected from 101 dairy cattle and 100 beef cattle. Formalin-ethyl acetate concentration techniques were used to process the samples and the samples were observed under a light microscope. Samples were subjected to molecular identification of specific genera using conventional polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing. The overall prevalence of GI nematode infection was 33.3%. The strongyle nematode was the most significant GI nematode in this area with a prevalence of 28.4%. The prevalence of strongyle nematodes was 58.0% in beef cattle and only 7.9% in dairy cattle. Trichuris spp. was another nematode found in both types of cattle with an overall prevalence of 5.0% with 9.0% in beef cattle and 1.0% in dairy cattle. The results of the epidemiological study indicate that the age of cattle, food, water sources, farming system, and housing floor are the most important risk factors. Among the strongyle nematodes, Ostertagia spp. was the most prevalent (82.0%), followed by Haemonchus spp. (62.3%) and Trichostrongylus spp. (8.2%), respectively. Infection with GI nematodes still exists in this area, particularly in beef cattle. Our reported data may benefit local parasitic control policies in the future.

Beef Cattle Production and Market of Beef Cattle Farmer in Lamphun Province

The objectives of this research were to study: 1) beef cattle production of farmers, 2) beef cattle markets in Lamphun province, and 3) problems and recommendations on beef cattle production in Lamphun province. The research samples consisted of two groups. Group 1, for quantitative research, were 210 beef cattle farmers in Lamphun province who had more than 21 head of beef cattle each. The data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed by descriptive statistics as percentage, mean, maximum, minimum and standard deviation. Group 2, for qualitative research, were 13 key informants who were representatives of beef cattle farmers and stakeholders in beef cattle production and market in Lamphun province. The data were collected by in-depth interview and analyzed by content analysis. The results showed that: 1) Most of farmer were male (about 93.33 %) with average ages of 42±34.58 years. Approximately 43.81 % were educated at primary level and had 35±26.15 years of experience in beef cattle production. Lamphun province had two types of beef cattle production which were 95.24% independent beef cattle farmers and 4.76% beef cattle community enterprise members. Farmers raised 4 types of beef cattle which were purebred beef cattle (50.71%), fattening beef cattle (31.44%), culled beef cattle (13.31%) and fattening quality beef cattle (4.54%). 2) Beef cattle markets in Lamphun province included beef cattle markets and beef markets. Beef cattle were sold at the farms, at beef cattle and buffalo markets and beef cattle fattening market, while butchered beef was sold through local markets in Lamphun province. And 3) the problems in beef cattle production were in beef cattle breeds, feed and farm management. The recommendations for beef cattle production were that beef cattle farmers should establish collaborative groups to develop beef cattle fattening quality production, and relevant agencies should advise and help farmers in farm management, implementing standard slaughterhouse and sources for selling beef cattle.

A Living Lab approach to understanding dairy farmers' technology and data needs to improve herd health: Focus groups from 6 European countries

For successful development and adoption of technology on dairy farms, farmers need to be included in the innovation process. However, the design of agricultural technologies usually takes a top-down approach with little involvement of end-users at the early stages. Living Labs offer a methodology that involve end-users throughout the development process and emphasize the importance of understanding users' needs. Currently, exploration of dairy farmers' needs of technologies has been limited to specific types of technology (e.g., smartphone apps) and adult cattle. The aim of this study was to use a Living Lab approach to identify dairy farmers' needs of data and technologies to improve herd health and inform innovation development. Eighteen focus groups were conducted with, in total, 80 dairy farmers from Belgium, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the UK. Data were analyzed using Template Analysis and 6 themes were generated which represented the fundamental needs of autonomy, comfort, competence, community and relatedness, purpose, and security. Farmers favored technologies that provided them with convenience, facilitated their knowledge and understanding of problems on farm, and allowed them to be self-reliant. Issues with data sharing and accessibility, and usability of software were barriers to technology use. Furthermore, farmers were facing problems around recruitment and management of labor and needed ways to reduce stress. Controlling aspects of the barn environment, such as air quality, hygiene, and stocking density, was a particular concern in relation to youngstock management. In conclusion, the findings suggest that developers of farm technologies may want to include farmers in the design process to ensure a positive user experience and improve accessibility. The needs identified in this study can be used as a framework when designing farm technologies to strengthen need satisfaction and reduce any potential harm toward needs.

Carcass Yield and Subprimal Cutout Value of Beef, High- and Low-Yielding Beef × Dairy, and Dairy Steers

This study compared carcass yield and cutout value of conventional beef and dairy cattle to high-yielding (HY) and low-yielding (LY) crossbred beef × dairy cattle and identified the contribution of carcass regions to carcass yield andcutout value among beef × dairy crossbreds. Carcasses of conventional beef, beef × dairy crossbred, and dairy cattle were selected according to industry-average slaughter endpoints for their cattle type. Carcasses were fabricated at a commercial processing facility, and weights of carcass components were obtained. Post hoc subsampling was used to segregate HY and LY beef × dairy crossbreds based on subprimal yield. Multiple linear regression was used to assess carcass yield and sub-primal cutout value between the 4 cattle types (n=21 to 26 per cattle type). Beef cattle and HY crossbreds produced 1.59 to 3.04 percentage units greater (P<0.05) subprimal yield than LY crossbreds and dairy cattle. Dairy cattle produced at least 1.16 percentage units more (P<0.05) bone than any other cattle type. Subprimal to bone was not different (P>0.05) between HY crossbreds and beef cattle, and subprimal to fat was lesser (P<0.05) in HY crossbreds than beef cattle. Subprimal cutout value was more than 5 US dollars (USD)/45.4 kg different (P<0.05) between cattle types, which were ranked HY crossbreds > beef cattle > LY crossbreds > dairy cattle. In beef × dairy cattle, subprimal to bone in the round contributed most greatly to an increase (P=0.02), by 3.79 USD/45.4 kg, in subprimal cutout value. Together, these results suggested carcass value of beef × dairy cattle may be maximized when cattle are harvested at a lesser overall fatness than conventional beef cattle and when considerable muscling, especially in the round, is achieved.

Consistent individual differences in cattle grazing patterns

Cattle grazing patterns can have a significant impact on the economic and environmental sustainability of rangelands and cattle production. Grazing patterns appear to be driven by consistent individual differences in cattle, deemed ‘grazing personalities’. Optimal distribution of cattle on rangelands can be manipulated by alteration of the environment, like adding water, supplement, or fencing to targeted sites, but few studies address how these management tools are impacting grazing patterns of individual cattle. Our study sought to fill this gap in knowledge by investigating consistency of grazing patterns among fifty cattle, fitted with GPS collars, across two years given the addition of a water site at higher elevation prior to year two. We used Bayesian multivariate mixed models to evaluate consistency, evidenced by among-individual correlations across years with confidence intervals that do not cross 0. We found that cattle were consistent in all rangeland use metrics across years after the addition of the new water site: elevation (Estimate = 0.38, CI = [0.07,0.64]), slope (Estimate = 0.59, CI = [0.21,0.86]), distance to water (Estimate = 0.38 CI = [0.03,0.67]), distance to supplement (Estimate = 0.42, CI = [0.04,0.72]), distance to loafing sites (Estimate = 0.68, CI = [0.24,0.95]), except for distance traveled (Estimate = 0.16,CI = [−0.18, 0.48]). Cows that ventured higher on rangeland in year one (Estimate = 0.84 CI = [0.59,0.98]) and year two (Estimate = 0.93 CI = [0.79,0.99]) and further from watering sites in year two (Estimate = 0.72 CI = [0.41,0.92]) also had more within-individual variability in their grazing patterns than those that stayed at lower elevation and closer to water. These results indicate differences in plasticity or variability can be linked to grazing personalities. There was strong evidence that temperature affected grazing distribution such that on hotter days, cows clumped closer to water and loafing sites, were found at lower elevation, and traveled less far, not reaching supplement sites that were placed at the higher elevations. Based on results of this study, ranchers should consider the effectiveness of management tools on individual cattle and conduct cost-benefit analyses of tools implemented for specific behavior types of cattle. Cattle with behavior types demonstrating more within-cow variability and more ‘hill-climbing’ will impact how cattle graze especially patchy landscapes where resources are distributed across elevation, thus ranchers could potentially match cattle types to rangeland characteristics.

How do grazing beef and dairy cattle respond to virtual fences? A review.

Virtual fencing (VF) is a modern fencing technology that requires the animal to wear a device (e.g., a collar) that emits acoustic signals to replace the visual cue of traditional physical fences (PF) and, if necessary, mild electric signals. The use of devices that provide electric signals leads to concerns regarding the welfare of virtually fenced animals. The objective of this review is to give an overview of the current state of VF research into the welfare and learning behavior of cattle. Therefore, a systematic literature search was conducted using two online databases and reference lists of relevant articles. Studies included were peer-reviewed and written in English, used beef or dairy cattle, and tested neck-mounted VF devices. Further inclusion criteria were a combination of audio and electrical signals and a setup as a pasture trial, which implied that animals grazed in groups on grassland for 4h minimum while at least one fence side was virtually fenced. The eligible studies (n = 13) were assigned to one or two of the following categories: animal welfare (n studies = 8) or learning behavior (n studies = 9). As data availability for conducting a meta-analysis was not sufficient, a comparison of the means of welfare indicators (daily weight gain, daily lying time, steps per hour, daily number of lying bouts, and fecal cortisol metabolites [FCM]) for virtually and physically fenced animals was done instead. In an additional qualitative approach, the results from the welfare-related studies were assembled and discussed. For the learning behavior, the number of acoustic and electric signals and their ratio were used in a linear regression model with duration in days as a numeric predictor to assess the learning trends over time. There were no significant differences between VF and PF for most welfare indicators (except FCM with lower values for VF; P = 0.0165). The duration in days did not have a significant effect on the number of acoustic and electric signals. However, a significant effect of trial duration on the ratio of electric-to-acoustic signals (P = 0.0014) could be detected, resulting in a decreasing trend of the ratio over time, which suggests successful learning. Overall, we conclude that the VF research done so far is promising but is not yet sufficient to ensure that the technology could not have impacts on the welfare of certain cattle types. More research is necessary to investigate especially possible long-term effects of VF.

Imports of Indonesian Beef Cattle: A Study of Cattle Weight Loss Based on Type of Ship and Type of Cattle

Imports of Indonesian Beef Cattle: A Study of Cattle Weight Loss Based on Type of Ship and Type of Cattle

Productivity of cattle of a new population of the bukovina zonal type of meat komologo simmental cattle on different recipes of rations with a high level of energy using different mixtures of concentrated feeds in the conditions of the foothills of the Carpathian region of Bukovina

Productivity of cattle of a new population of the bukovina zonal type of meat komologo simmental cattle on different recipes of rations with a high level of energy using different mixtures of concentrated feeds in the conditions of the foothills of the Carpathian region of Bukovina