Purdue University’s Ron Lemenager is an animal scientist and a cattle handling expert. His tips, from very practical advice to more nuanced insights about the behavior of cattle, can help you more safely and easily manage cattle on your farming operation.
Reduce Shadows and Noise
Shadows may confuse cattle, said Lemenager, according to Successful Farming magazine. So, when setting up a working chute take light sources and sun angles into consideration. You can help lessen shadows by putting solid sides on chutes and crowd pens. Also, make use of artificial light overhead. When it comes to noise be aware that cattle shy away from things like dangling chains and rattling head gates.
The Blind Spot for Cattle Is Directly Behind Them
When you work your cattle in an open pen or pasture paddock be aware that their blind spot is directly behind them, so they won’t respond to your commands or arm signals if you issue them from that position. Instead, work from the side at approximately 30 to 35 degrees and the cattle will be more likely to respond to your commands.
Add Traction to Smooth Concrete Floors in Chutes and Working Pens
If the concrete floors in your chutes and working pens are smooth you can add traction by bolting wood strips or rebar to the floor. Just make sure the openings are wide enough for the feet of your animals. Even if your concrete floors already have an extreme broom finish that alone will not be enough, Lemenager says.
Put Gates in the Direction You Want Cattle to Move in a Paddock
Alleyways should connect pastures and paddocks. If you’re moving cattle in a northerly direction through alleyways you should put the gates in the north corners of paddocks. This will help moving become routine for the cattle.
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