Observations on the behaviour and factors influencing the
sexually-active group in cattle
R. Kilgour, B.H. Skarsholt, J.F. Smith, K.J. Bremner and M.C.L.
Morrison
Ruakura Animal Research Station, Private Bag, Hamilton
E-Mail:
Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1977, 37: 128-135
The behaviour of cows forming sexually-active-groups (SAF)
within a herd of 100 dioestrous beef cows is described, when bulls were
or were not present. Oestrous cows were ridden by other cows for up to
13 hours before the bull began riding. A few cows were not ridden by the
bulls, though several stood after being persistently followed. The
riding activity within the SAF was inhibited by the near presence of the
bulls, by feeding supplements of three oestrus detection systems is
discussed in relation to the behaviour patterns seen in cows in the SAG,
and practical suggestions are made.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
Last Updated 24-08-2000
