By Kathy Mann
Spring is right around the corner bringing new life on the farm. Who doesn't love seeing the cute and cuddly baby animals? Although some farm animals are pets, most animals on the farm are considered livestock. And while livestock may look cute and cuddly, they can pose a hazard when working around or handling them. It is important for children to have adult supervision whenever they are near livestock.
Livestock exhibit certain behavioral traits. Recognizing and understanding these traits can help prevent injuries. The first trait is maternal. To mothers of young farm animals, you are a dangerous predator. When they feel their young are in danger, they will snort, kick, or charge.
Livestock are unpredictable. They can become scared, tired, hungry, or irritated quickly without warning. It is important to always remain alert when working around mothers with their young.
Another behavior trait is territorial. Just like us, animals want their own pen, stall or space. Cows tend to walk into the same stall day- after-day. When people invade or try to remove them from this area, they may feel threatened.
In addition to the behavioral traits, animals give visual signs when they feel unsafe or nervous. Just as our faces show our feelings, livestock use body language to communicate feelings. For example:
- When animals lower their heads, paw at the dirt, bellow, or snort, they are getting ready to charge. Likewise, animals that pace their stall or circle around their baby may charge if you try to approach.
- Ears that are laid back against the neck or head means animals are mad and will likely try to kick or bite.
While enjoying the new babies on the farm this spring, remember to stay alert, watch for visual discomfort signs, and make sure children are always supervised when around livestock.
Source:osu.edu