Cows make best friends NEWS
A scientist studying for her Phd in Northamptonshire has discovered that cows form special bonds between themselves, and can become stressed when separated from friends.
British Scientist Krista McLennan has discovered that cows do indeed form special friendships and can become stressed when separated from their chums.
McLennan who researched this area whilst studying for her Phd in Northamptonshire now feels that if British farmers pay heed to her findings it could in turn increase their milk yield. She measured heart rates and cortisol levels in cows who were isolated from their herd or indeed their special cow-mates.
Cattle were penned on their own, with their best friend or with another cow they did not know for 30 minutes and their heart rates were measured at 15-second intervals. The research demonstrated that cows are very social animals which often form close bonds within their own herd.
When a cow was with familiar friends their heart rates were reduced compared to be with random cows they didn't know. Ms McLennan stated: 'If we can encourage farmers to keep an eye out for those cows which like to keep their friends with them, it could have some real benefits, such as improving their milk yields and reducing stress for the animals, which is very important for their welfare.'
She now hopes her suggestion that cows like to stay with their best friends will be taken on by the dairy industry. Trevor Foss, chairman of the Northamptonshire branch of the NFU, said the research could be of real use to dairy farmers.
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