This week’s article collection focuses on interesting research that improves graziers’ lives. Let’s jump right in.
Saving on Cattle Feed
This long-term study indicates that heifers fed 27% less over the winter months gain weight more efficiently on pasture, are more resilient when forage is marginal or scarce, have pregnancy rates similar to cows fed a typical diet, and wean calves just as big as their well-fed counterparts.
Soil Bacteria named for a Cow Could Reduce Depression
It’s reported that farmers and ranchers are more prone to depression than their urban counterparts, so the discovery of what this one soil bacteria can do – from reducing depression to increasing our ability to learn to treating antibiotic-resistant tuberculosis – well, it’s something we should probably pay attention to.
Reducing Herd Stress by Understanding How Stress Spreads from Animal to Animal
This seemed like a silly experiment on the surface, but in the end (no pun intended) it tells us a bit about how we can reduce our own stress by reducing the spread of stress among our animals.
Using Mother to Manage Your Livestock
When I say “Mother” I don’t mean your Mom. I’m talking about the mothers of your calves, lambs, and kids. This research points out something you might have known in your gut, but gives you some finer points that will help you when you’re choosing to keep animals that help you in your work or get rid of those who are a bad influence.
How Do Animals Choose Where to Graze and Find the Best Forage and Water?
