Work

Ingestive behavior of Nellore cattle confined during the growing phase in different shading strategies

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: In the feedlot of regions with semi-arid climates whose solar radiation and air temperature are high throughout the year, it is important to consider whether animal performance and welfare are being affected. The strategic use of natural or artificial shade can be an important tool not only to improve the performance of animals, but also to provide thermal comfort. The objective was to evaluate different shading strategies on ingestive behavior of Nellore cattle confined during the growing phase. The experiment was carried out on a farm in Itacarambi-MG, with 225 Nellore cattle, mean body weight 240 kg and 10 months evaluated in the adaptation to the rearing. The design was completely randomized with three corral shading strategies and 75 animals per treatment (experimental unit). The climatic environment was characterized by climatic variables and indices at specific times. Observations were made on the spot every 15 minutes for 24 hours of the frequency of animals feeding, ruminating or idling. The climatic environment was uncomfortable in full sun, with a higher air temperature between 12:00 and 14: 50h. The animals accommodated in the corral with natural shading showed a higher frequency of feeding in the trough. The microclimate formed by the trees in the natural shading corral made the environment more suitable for raising cattle. The animals with natural shading showed a higher frequency of feeding in the trough, consequently greater feeding efficiency and gain in average daily weight, registering a higher final weight.

Source: Acta Scientiarum Animal Sciences

DOI: 10.4025/actascianimsci.v47i1.71117