Articles tagged with Cattle
Research shows that weather information alone won't shield poor livestock farmers from climate change impacts, highlighting the need for paired climate forecasts and risk-smoothing measures
A new study analyzing a large dataset reveals that cattle were initially more abundant than sheep, but sheep increased in the 7th century, driven by monastic farms and wool production. The economy shifted towards draught cattle in the 10th to 12th centuries, but then declined as demand for meat and milk grew
Irrigated mountain hayfields act as large filtration systems, reducing nutrient concentrations in runoff and improving water quality. This study found that voluntary adoption of best management practices can effectively mitigate the impacts of agricultural nutrient use in mountain meadow hay systems.
New research highlights the importance of preserving traditional cattle breeds' unique genetic profiles for resilience against disease and environmental challenges. These populations carry irreplaceable traits that could help future generations of farmers respond to global challenges such as climate change.
Researchers are studying foul-smelling substances to understand what attracts the New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite, to its favorite meal - open wounds. The goal is to develop better lures for trapping this serious threat to the livestock industry.
Two studies found that California gray wolves primarily eat cattle, with 72% of scat samples containing cattle DNA. Elevated cortisol levels in cattle grazing near wolf packs also indicate chronic stress, affecting their physiology and potentially production rates.
In California's human-dominated landscape, gray wolves predominantly feed on cattle, followed by mule deer and small mammals. This dietary composition suggests that coexisting with humans may be complex for wolf populations.
Researchers at Göttingen University found that virtual fences lead to a more even distribution of animals across the pasture and reduced movement near edges. Virtual fences also elicit similar behavior from cattle as conventional electric fences.
Research at Ohio State University found that just 10 viral particles can cause H5N1 avian flu infection in cows. The study also suggests that the virus has an affinity for cow mammary glands rather than airways.
A study published in PLOS One reveals that early bovines, such as Parabos tigneresi, inhabited a humid environment and weighed up to half a ton 4 million years ago. The discovery of well-preserved fossils at the Camp de Ninots site has shed new light on the evolution of large-bodied buffalo and cattle.
Researchers found that cows stared longer at unfamiliar faces and could match a known handler's voice with their image. The animals' heart rates showed no emotional response to the faces or voices.
Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have developed a promising new vaccine approach against highly pathogenic bird flu (H5N1) that demonstrates strong efficacy in both mice and dairy cattle. The vaccine platform protects against multiple H5N1 strains and generates immunity in both the bloodstream and respiratory tract.
Researchers developed a tool that combines wild bird abundance and cattle density data to predict where and when the risk of infection is highest in Denmark. The study warns that Danish cattle are particularly vulnerable due to their location along migratory bird routes, with the risk of infection highest from December to March.
Researchers develop model to estimate animal's immune response based on genetic data, aiming to reduce antibiotic use and improve sustainability in livestock farming. The study found that non-genetic factors like seasonality explain much of the immune variability observed between animals.
A $1.8 million grant will fund the development of refrigerated semen storage, eliminating liquid nitrogen needs for dairy farming in developing countries. This technology is expected to increase milk production and improve farmers' incomes, addressing food insecurity.
The study maps where and how millions of animals may be affected by heat stress in Europe. Regional differences were found, with southern European countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, and Romania likely to face significant impacts.
Researchers have discovered the first case of flexible, multi-purpose tool use in cattle, with Veronika using a deck brush to scratch different body regions. The study highlights the cognitive abilities of cattle and expands our understanding of animal intelligence.
A recent UBC study found that half of the global population needs to change their diets to prevent severe planetary warming. The study suggests that individuals can make simple dietary changes, such as eating only what they need and reducing beef consumption, to reduce food-related greenhouse gas emissions.
A study by Iowa State University researchers reveals that avian influenza can infect livestock and humans through their mammary glands, which have high levels of sialic acids. This increases the risk of transmission and potentially more dangerous adaptations emerging.
Researchers are tracking the New World screwworm's potential return to California, deploying traps baited with a lure that attracts the fly. Early detection is critical to preventing an outbreak, particularly among farm animals vulnerable to wounds. The project aims to raise awareness and prevent infestations if the fly were to reappear.
A study by the University of Helsinki reveals that microplastics interact with the rumen microbiome, alter fermentation processes, and are partially broken down. This interaction has significant implications for animal health, productivity, and food safety.
A study found high rates of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in raw milk, with 95% of isolated strains resistant to penicillin and erythromycin. The presence of multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis in raw milk highlights the urgent need for responsible antibiotic use and improved hygiene practices.
A study by the University of Göttingen found that social pressure is the primary driver behind farmers' willingness to protect their livestock from wolves. Financial support, such as subsidies for electric fences, also encourages farmers to take action. However, guard dogs are not a preferred option.
A new study reveals that Indonesian cattle breeds carry a unique blend of zebu and banteng genetics, making them more genetically diverse than other breeds. This diversity could lead to improved disease resistance, productivity, and greenhouse gas emissions in cattle farming.
A four-year study investigates how a widely used BCG vaccine boosts overall immunity in livestock, exploring 'trained immunity' triggered by the vaccine. The research aims to develop more sustainable and resilient farming systems, leading to healthier livestock and reduced reliance on antibiotics.
The H5N1 virus has defied control, spreading to other species and disrupting every stage of the dairy sector. A One Health approach is necessary to mitigate the outbreak, taking into account animal and human health with environmental factors.
Researchers found that the H5N1 virus enters the mammary glands through the teat, not via respiratory infection. Lactating cows' self-nursing or mutual-nursing behaviors may facilitate this transmission. Vaccination with two different vaccines showed complete protection against H5N1 infection in cattle.
A new study finds that Salmonella Dublin causes increased calf mortality, lower milk yield, and higher medication costs in dairy farms. The disease leads to hidden financial losses due to gradual infection without visible symptoms.
A new study found that cows fed hemp byproduct for 28 days and then withdrawn from the diet for four weeks have undetectable levels of psychoactive THC in their milk. The findings could pave the way for the use of spent hemp biomass as a feed supplement for livestock, providing an economic value to hemp producers.
A new study from the University of California, Riverside shows that sealing manure ponds at a Central Valley farm can dramatically reduce atmospheric methane emissions. The researchers found that this method can achieve an 80% reduction in emissions, comparable to California state officials' climate planning estimates.
A new open-source tool, greenfeedr, is introduced to simplify the process of analyzing GreenFeed data from livestock. The R package offers functions for downloading, processing, and generating reports, allowing researchers and producers to automate routine tasks and gain insights into methane and carbon dioxide emissions.
Researchers found that Brazil's beef production, if left unchecked, would exceed the country's limit for meeting its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target by up to 63GtCO2e by 2030. The study suggests that adopting emission reduction practices could prevent losses of up to $42.6 billion and ensure greater competitiveness.
The CDC has awarded a $3 million grant to the Texas A&M School of Public Health to investigate avian flu among dairy farm workers in Texas. The team, led by Dr. David Douphrate, aims to identify the scope of exposure and workplace factors involved in transmission.
Researchers have identified several key genes and pathways involved in the bovine response to Mycobacterium bovis, the causative agent of tuberculosis in cattle. The study found that genetic variation affecting the initial proinflammatory immune response contributes to bTB susceptibility.
Consumers purchasing natural pasture-raised beef believe high-quality meat is part of a sustainable diet, but struggle to link it to reduced overall intake. The study highlights the need for clearer definitions and guidance on sustainable meat consumption criteria.
A long-term study in the Spiti valley of the Himalayas found that livestock grazing leads to reduced spider populations and increased grasshoppers and disease carriers like ticks and mites. The researchers suggest rewilding native herbivores and improved surveillance to mitigate these changes.
Researchers developed a machine learning model that predicts the presence of animal feeding operations with high accuracy, filling a data gap crucial for managing their environmental impacts. The model uses predictors such as surface temperature and phosphorus levels to identify locations without relying on aerial images.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that cows with certain personalities tend to graze more widely or stick close to the herd. Researchers used sweet molasses feed to induce grazing behaviors, revealing insights into optimal cattle distribution and nutrition.
Researchers at Texas Biomed identified nine mutations in a bird flu strain from a person in Texas that enable it to more easily replicate in human cells and cause severe disease. Approved antivirals still effectively combat the virus, according to mouse studies.
Researchers found that virtual fences created a more gradual transition between native grassland and fully grazed areas, increasing native habitat for pollinators and birds. This transition zone, spanning over 15 meters, provided a greater variation of vegetation heights compared to fenced rangeland.
Researchers at the University of California, Davis found that feeding grazing beef cattle a seaweed supplement reduced their methane emissions by nearly 40% without affecting health or weight. The study provides a promising approach to make cattle farming more sustainable and play a role in fighting climate change.
A study published in Journal of Dairy Science introduces a new 3D pose estimation system to monitor dairy cow comfort and well-being. The model detects posture transitions with 88% sensitivity, providing valuable insights into animal welfare.
Geneticists deciphered aurochs prehistory by analysing 38 ancient genomes from Siberia to Britain. The study highlights diverse wild forms and the impact of climate change and domestication on their evolution.
A study by University of São Paulo shows that expansion of cattle ranching to meet growing domestic demand has contributed more than any other driver to Amazon's original vegetation degradation. Domestic markets exert far greater pressure on deforestation, according to the study.
The study found H5N1 virus detected in 10 out of 10 cities and 22 out of 23 sites, but no correlation with hospitalizations. The team used viral probe capture to detect viruses in wastewater samples, revealing animal origins of the virus load
A new vaccine created by Mizzou researchers protects cattle from bovine anaplasmosis, a devastating tick-borne disease causing hundreds of millions of dollars in economic losses. The vaccine has been proven to give immunized cattle protection for at least a month and is being discussed with industry partners for future distribution.
A new study by Prof. Eyal Klement and PhD Student Michal Morgenstern has identified key factors influencing vaccination intentions among Israeli dairy farmers, revealing the significant impact of social pressure and underscoring the need for improved communication between veterinarians and farmers.
A new study reveals that Maasai women are gaining access to household decisions through livelihood diversification, education, and secure land tenure. This research contributes to the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goal of Gender Equality, highlighting the value of empowering decision-making for women in pastoralist communities.
A new study on malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) in cattle reveals the mechanisms of AlHV-1 infection and identifies a crucial viral gene involved in disease development. The research provides a promising basis for developing an effective vaccine against this devastating bovine disease.
A Cornell University study reveals efficient and sustained mammalian-to-mammalian transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 between cows and from cows to cats and a raccoon. The virus shows high tropism for the mammary gland and infectious viral loads in milk.
A new study found that high doses of red seaweed reduce methane emissions in cows, but the effect is short-lived. The researchers discovered that the seaweed inhibits methanogenic microbes, leading to a near-total elimination of a key microbe involved in methane formation.
A team of Texas A&M researchers will conduct a five-year study on brucellosis in Armenia to improve detection capabilities and provide education. The project aims to better understand the disease's presence and prevalence, allowing the Armenian government to develop a control plan to stop its spread.
A recent study by Iowa State University researchers found that dairy cows have rich supplies of sialic acid, a sugar molecule that acts as a receptor for influenza. This discovery sheds light on how the virus attaches to hosts and raises questions about the risks of consuming raw milk from infected cows.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discover that cattle have CoRSIVs, regions on the DNA that regulate gene expression and can predict desirable traits such as milk production and disease resistance. The study opens new possibilities for improving production efficiency in the cattle industry.
A new study suggests that exposure to raw milk infected with the currently circulating H5N1 virus poses a significant risk to humans. However, the virus may not spread very far or quickly to others, as experiments on mice and ferrets show limited airborne transmission.
Researchers found that disease transmission between farms persists despite movement restrictions, with cattle movement activities being the strongest predictor of farm infections. The study calls for a multifaceted approach to managing Salmonella Dublin, including closer monitoring and targeted interventions.
Researchers tested hundreds of milk products from dozens of states and found no infectious H5N1 virus, but detected viral genetic material in 20% of samples.
Researchers found that H5N1 virus particles in unpasteurized milk can remain stable on metal and rubber components of commercial milking equipment for over an hour. This increases the potential for bird flu exposure among dairy farm workers and animal-to-animal transmission.
A new study found that market-ready steers can maintain high-quality beef even when fed lower-cost maintenance diets. The research showed no significant differences in meat quality between two diet groups, suggesting flexibility in feeding strategies.
Researchers identified genes that contribute to heat-tolerant cattle through skin biopsies and genetic analysis. This discovery could help breed cattle better adapted to hot climates, ensuring food supply longevity.