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The Farm
Meet The Animals
Photos of the Animals
Animal Diaries
Watch & Learn
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Lifespan
The average lifespan for cattle is 20-25 years in nature, though
they can live more than 25 years. However, cattle raised on modern-day
farms have much shorter lifespans.
Average Weight
· Adult male breeds of cattle, such as Angus, Jersey, and
Hereford weigh between 1,200 and 1,800 pounds. Larger breeds, such
as Brahman, Brangus, Charolais, and Holsteins, can weigh between
2,000 and 2,800 pounds.
· Adult female cattle weigh between 1,100 and 1,500 pounds,
and larger breeds of female cows weigh close to 2,000 pounds.
Body Temperature
Between 101 F and 102 F
Gestation
9 months
Food Requirements
Cattle are ruminants (animals with stomachs that have four chambers)
and, as a result, rely mainly on hay or pasture for their dietary
needs. Adult cattle need 2 pounds of hay per 100 pounds of body
weight daily.
Social Structures
When given the chance, cattle live naturally in herds and have a
strict hierarchy in their groups. Each cow can recognize 50-70
other cows, and all the cattle in a herd will wait to move until
the leader does. Cattle communicate visually and verbally, and
frequently groom each other. Grooming each other may reduce tension,
reinforce social bonds, and stabilize social relationships.
Sneak a Peek at a Cow
Listen to a Cow
Find out how cows are treated on factory farms.
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