Cattle Flashcards
Definitions, What are the names of:
Collective name for cattle
Male, Entire
Male, castrated
Female, not calved
Female, calved
Removed from herd (for health, productivity, genetic reasons etc.)
Herd
Bull
Bullock or Steer
Heifer
Cow
Cull
How much do cows eat and what does their eating habits make them?
Up to 20 hours a day
Ranging Herbivores
What is the difference between bos taurus and bos indicus?
Bos taurus are European cattle (commonly seen in UK)
Bos indicts are humoed zebu cattle (heat and insect resistant)
What is the herds structure in cattle?
Predominately linear hierarchical
Why might cows act strangely when you take it away from the herd to check it in an isolation pen?
Cows are incredibly social so separating it from others may cause it stress and cows are creatures of habit so this is a change to its routine.
Why do cows have a well-developed flight response?
In the wild cows are prey so are on constant alert for predators
What are 3 things that could trigger a cows flight response?
- Being looked in the eye
- Sudden movement
- Humans entering their flight zone
Where is the point of balance on a cow and why is it useful?
At their shoulder, this is the best point to aim for when approaching cattle
What is the average weight for a cow?
+/- 600kg
Why are hind-legs dangerous when around cattle?
Can kick up to 6ft and can kick them bock backwards and forwards
What are cows heads mostly composed of?
Muscle and bone as they have relatively small brains
When approaching cattle should you keep your distance?
NO, try to make physical contact with the cow and remain within close contact.
What is the lump on top of a cows head called?
The cows ‘poll’
How many ear tags do cows have?
Two, a primary (yellow) and a secondary (yellow or metal) in separate ears incase one falls out.
What cows would have freeze brands?
Dairy cows so they can be quickly/easily identified
