Behavior of Range Cows in Response to Winter Weather

Abstract

Hereford cows consuming a sub-maintenance diet on a northern Utah winter range altered their daily behavioral routines in response to changes in weather. They spent more time grazing and less time standing on warm days than on cold days. They also grazed and ruminated for longer time periods following changes in atmospheric pressure. Distances the cows traveled daily were highly and inversely related to average daily wind velocities. The net result of these alterations in behavioral patterns was a reduction in energy expenditures for physical activities during periods of weather stress.