Articles tagged with Livestock
Sheep and goats can be trained to avoid eating olive leaves and grapevines through conditioned taste aversion, which simulates toxic components found in plants. This method reduces the need for pesticides and farming equipment while providing a nutrient-rich agricultural resource.
A reduced dietary pattern featuring less red and processed meat significantly reduces the risk of coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, and bowel cancer by 3-12%. It also leads to a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 28 million tonnes of CO2 per year.
A study published in The Veterinary Journal found that horse branding is unreliable for identification due to poor legibility and tissue damage. Researchers examined brand marks on over 250 horses and found that only a small percentage could be clearly read.
Australian scientists have discovered a new bat virus, Cedar, which is closely related to deadly Hendra and Nipah viruses. The virus does not cause illness in several animal species normally susceptible to Hendra and Nipah, providing a surprising key difference.
Researchers studying sloths on a shade-grown cacao farm in Costa Rica are gaining insights into their mating habits, behavior, and ecological parameters. The study reveals that sloths tend to disperse from home range and have multiple partners, and the cacao farm provides an ideal habitat for these animals.
Researchers at Newcastle University used biomechanical motion capture to analyze pigs' gait and identify those at risk of becoming lame. The study aims to develop a farmer-friendly system to predict leg problems and reduce lameness, improving health and welfare on UK farms.
Researchers found that estrogens convert from one form to another in anoxic conditions, stalling biodegradation and complicating detection. The study reveals a reverse transformation process, where estrone reverts to alpha- and beta-estradiols, inhibiting further degradation.
Off-label antibiotic use in farm animals poses a significant risk of promoting antibiotic resistance in humans. Canada should phase out antibiotics used for non-medical purposes in livestock and support producers who improve animal living conditions.
The UK has allocated £250M for five-year strategic investment programmes in bioscience research, including 26 strategic science programmes and 14 key national research capabilities. This funding will focus on addressing global challenges such as sustainable food production, energy security, and healthcare.
Lorne Babiuk, a renowned vaccine researcher, has been awarded the prestigious Canada Gairdner Wightman Award for his outstanding leadership in vaccine development and research. He is recognized for his work on developing six world-first livestock vaccines and creating a vaccine against rotavirus in calves that led to a human vaccine.
The European research project ReUseWaste aims to develop technologies and systems to make agriculture more resource-efficient by extracting bio-energy from waste, increasing nutrient recycling, and conserving soil quality. The project focuses on Denmark's significant animal manure production, aiming to increase sustainability and drive...
A new DNA-based method analyzed genetic material from 81 fecal samples, showing that most snow leopards ate wild animals (79%), with a relatively low proportion of domestic livestock (19.7%). The study aims to inform conservation strategies for the endangered species.
Christian Schlötterer is studying how fruit flies adapt to climate change through genetic analysis, aiming to understand the molecular mechanisms behind adaptation. His project may provide insights into natural variation and gene changes required for survival in new environments.
A severe climate event in Mongolia devastated the country's livestock and Przewalski's horse population, with losses averaging 60% for horses and minimal impact on wild asses. The study emphasizes the need for managing migratory species across large landscapes to ensure their survival.
A study by Heather Allen and colleagues reveals that antibiotics in swine feed stimulate gene transfer among gut bacteria, increasing the risk of antibiotic resistance. The researchers found that prophages, segments of DNA encoding antibiotic resistance genes, underwent significant increases in induction when exposed to antibiotics.
The study, 'Pedigree Chums: Science, Medicine and the Remaking of the Dog in the Twentieth Century', investigates the transformation of dogs through human selection and treatment, as well as their interactions with humans.
A University of Hull study found that weeds are vital to the existence of many farmland species, providing food for over 330 species of insects, birds, and animals. The research also showed that increasing farm management intensity can lead to a decline in seed biomass and energy, affecting farmland biodiversity.
Researchers at Purdue University have created a type of turfgrass that is safe for grazing animals but toxic to certain insects. The fungus, called Neotyphodium, produces compounds that kill insects while protecting the grass from animal harm. This breakthrough could lead to reduced pesticide use and promote sustainability in agriculture.
Researchers found hunter attitudes toward wolves inconsistent with stewardship, and existing game hunts are not suitable models for a potential wolf hunt. Support for regulated wolf hunting is conditional and varies among respondents.
A surprisingly healthy population of rare snow leopards has been discovered in northeastern Afghanistan's Wakhan Corridor, according to a new study. WCS-trained community rangers used camera traps to document the presence of snow leopards at 16 different locations across the region.
Researchers sequenced the microbial communities inside a Tammar wallaby's gut, identifying a bacterium that could help reduce methane emissions in livestock. The study provides insights into the unique gut microbiome of macropods and may lead to strategies for modifying fermentation to produce less methane.
Researchers discovered a bacterial species in Australian Tammar wallaby gut that keeps methane emissions low, suggesting a potential new strategy to reduce livestock methane. The bacteria produce succinate as a main end product of fermentation, unlike methane-producing microbes.
The study analyzed 260 deer-vehicle collisions between 2003 and 2007 to identify high-risk areas along Edmonton's city limits. Creating a buffer zone by grooming natural vegetation alongside roads is suggested as a solution to mitigate fatal collisions.
The Roslin Institute has relocated to a new, purpose-built centre with partners from the SAC, focusing on improving livestock health and productivity. The institute aims to tackle complex problems such as diseases, animal welfare, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Scientists have discovered naturally occurring thiouracil in plant-based animal feed and food. The discovery challenges the assumption that the substance is solely of synthetic origin, sparking debate over its natural occurrence.
Experts from the Middle East and 12 African countries meet in Dubai to develop a strategy for preventing Rift Valley fever outbreaks, which can disrupt livestock trade and threaten food security. The new approach aims to expedite the flow of livestock products while increasing safety in the region.
Researchers have found a link between methane production and levels of archaeol in the faeces of cows, sheep, and deer, offering a potential solution to quantify animal methane contributions. The discovery could enable more accurate assessments of global greenhouse gas emissions.
A research team has created a risk map to predict wolf attacks on Wisconsin livestock, identifying three variables that distinguish high-risk areas from low-risk ones. The study suggests that targeting prevention efforts on high-risk hotspots can help reduce conflicts between humans and wolves.
Researchers discovered a novel strain of Staphylococcus aureus, ST398, in an Iowa child care worker who reported no contact with livestock. The finding is an unexpected occurrence in a study examining the presence of Staphylococcus aureus in child day care facilities.
The Asiatic wild ass is critically endangered due to habitat destruction and hunting. The species' range is limited to areas with low biomass production, forcing it into unproductive habitats. Conservation efforts could benefit not only the wild ass but also other rare mammals by opening up migration corridors.
A €3 million research project aims to deliver better ways to ensure the quality and safety of animal feeds in Europe. The QSAFFE project, led by Queen's Centre for Assured, Safe and Traceable Food (ASSET), involves 11 partners from six countries and will work on developing new technology to detect contamination quickly and at low cost.
Researchers have successfully sequenced 1% of the Iberian pig's genome, providing a new understanding of its genetics and meat quality. The study reveals surprising genetic diversity, with regions related to olfactory and immune systems showing higher variability.
The One Health concept aims to integrate surveillance activities across species to monitor and respond to emerging zoonotic diseases. ProMED-mail's global surveillance system has reported over 10,000 animal health issues, highlighting the need for improved interspecies collaboration.
The University of Illinois study found that swine diets can include up to 15% glycerin and achieve comparable performance to a conventional corn:soybean diet. However, the study revealed no effect of feeding glycerin on meat quality. The availability and cost of glycerin may impact its use as a feed ingredient.
Children who grew up on farms with their mothers during pregnancy showed a reduced risk of developing atopic dermatitis in their first two years. The study identified specific genes linked to innate immunity that are associated with lower likelihoods of allergic conditions, providing new insights into the disease.
A new study confirms medusahead has growth advantages over most other grass species, suggesting it will spread across the West, disrupt native ecosystems, and make millions of acres worthless. Researchers identify potential competing species to reduce its spread and preserve grazing lands.
Researchers are exploring the cowpea's high protein content, drought resistance, and ability to infuse soils with nitrogen, making it a promising crop for Africa's food security. The conference highlights innovative approaches to breeding resilient varieties and using biotechnology to combat pests and diseases.
A study by David Blouin found that people who think of animals as children tend to have a city background, while those in rural areas may view pets as just another animal. Having children often changes owners' thoughts on their pets.
A study by the US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service found that rotational grazing and checking a lamb's eye color can minimize deworming. The researchers tested 71 lambs with the barber pole worm, finding that gel capsules filled with copper oxide wire particles eliminated the need for conventional dewormers in ...
Tall fescue toxicosis is a costly disorder affecting forage-livestock agriculture, with no cure but proven management techniques available. The new guidebook covers management strategies such as endophyte testing and supplement feeding to lessen the impact of toxicosis.
Researchers have developed a new, completely natural alternative to using antibiotics in animal feed. The activated clay product Amadeite adsorbs mycotoxins, reducing the risk of disease and improving livestock productivity.
Researchers found that Viagra can aid fetal development in pregnant female sheep by enhancing blood flow and supplying vital nutrients. The study's results suggest that the medication may have similar benefits for humans, particularly in preventing low birth-weight babies and related health issues.
Researchers propose reintroducing small, managed populations of wolves into national parks to enhance ecosystem biodiversity, increase plant biomass, and boost tourism. Advances in animal tracking technology and management techniques may mitigate concerns about wolf behavior and human safety.
The HALI project recognizes the need for integrated health approaches due to explosive population growth and environmental changes. Integrated policies addressing multiple causes of poor health, such as water scarcity and food insecurity, can yield larger health benefits than individualized interventions.
A study found that 77% of male pigs in Europe are castrated without anesthesia, despite EU regulations requiring the practice to be done within the first seven days of life. This is a concern as it can lead to animal suffering and health issues.
A 30% reduction in livestock production in high-producing countries could lead to a substantial decrease in saturated fat consumption, resulting in positive effects on health. This reduction would also contribute to slowing climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
A new study projects variable impacts of climate change on maize and bean harvests in East Africa, presenting both threats and opportunities for farmers. With adequate investment, the region can achieve food security despite predicted declines in staple crop production.
The University of Minnesota is part of a multidisciplinary team working to pre-empt or combat emerging zoonotic pandemics. The project, RESPOND, aims to improve the ability of countries to recognize and respond to new epidemics in areas with unstable ecological relationships.
A Spanish researcher analyzed wolf feces and found that 62.8% of prey was roe deer, while domestic sheep and goats only made up 7.7% and 2.9%, respectively. The study suggests that wolves do not prioritize easily available prey like domestic animals.
The study found that traditional farming practices by local communities create open habitats suitable for the birds. Conservation efforts may rely on these partnerships to save the species from extinction.
A new international partnership aims to improve African institutions' capacity to detect infectious diseases affecting humans and animals. The Southern African Centre for Infectious Disease Surveillance (SACIDS) will develop courses, research skills, and biosafety systems to tackle major livestock and wildlife diseases.
High ozone conditions decrease oilseed rape yield by 30% and increase toxic glucosinolate compounds, affecting crop resistance and animal fodder quality. This could lead to significant income loss for farmers and impact human health in future climates.
A University of Minnesota-led study finds that sport hunting is depleting lion and cougar populations, with management agencies often prioritizing human safety over conservation. The study suggests that new approaches are needed to protect humans and livestock while managing sport hunting.
Climate change models project 500,000-1 million sq km of marginal African farmland will no longer support crop cultivation by 2050. However, livestock production could be a sustainable alternative for millions of poor farmers in Africa.
The US wildlife trade is plagued by a lack of coordination and regulation, leading to the importation of millions of animals each year. This can have devastating effects on native species, food supply chains, and human health, as evidenced by previous disease outbreaks such as monkeypox.
A recent study by Brown University and the Wildlife Trust found that US wildlife imports are fragmented and insufficiently coordinated, failing to accurately list over four in five species entering the country. This lack of regulation poses significant risks to human health, food supply chains, and ecosystems.
UC Davis establishes Mountain Gorilla One Health Program to conserve gorillas & address human health, livestock, and agricultural issues. The program aims to improve gorilla health & prevent disease from affecting human populations.
A new study reveals widespread and substantial declines in wildlife populations in Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve. The researchers found that a growing concentration of human settlements near the reserve is linked to large losses of wildlife, including giraffes, hartebeest, impala, and warthogs.
A groundbreaking CSIRO study has defined the period when horses are most likely to shed Hendra virus, enabling early diagnosis and prevention of transmission. This breakthrough aims to reduce the risk of spread to both humans and susceptible horses.
A study published in the Journal of Natural Resources & Life Sciences Education found that workshops improved Iranian pastoralists' understanding of rangeland management techniques, leading to better land utilization. The results showed a significant impact on concepts like animal-rangeland equilibrium and grazing duration.