Teagasc tests reveal pure-bred bulls more dangerous than cross-bred

PURE-BRED bulls are far more dangerous and temperamental than cross-breds, according to research from Teagasc.

Teagasc flight test findings show pure-bred animals were far less approachable than cross-breds, allowing an approach distance of just half that for cross-breds, before fleeing. This tendency towards fleeing is a frequent cause of on-farm accidents involving bulls.

Four novel tests were used with both pure-bred and cross-bred beef cattle related to animal flight, docility, fear and a crush test where animals were restrained in a cattle crush.

This work was the Irish contribution to a five country project funded under the EU Leonardo da Vinci programme, designed to address the rising level of injuries with livestock across Europe.

The findings of the national seminar on safety with cattle took place at the Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research Centre, Grange, Co Meath.

Unveiling the findings, Teagasc animal health and welfare research scientist, Dr Bernadette Earley, said: “Understanding the behaviour of cattle and working with them slowly and calmly is crucial to reducing injuries with cattle.

“The fear test indicated animals were more agitated when isolated from other animals.

“Cattle were less agitated when in the presence of a stationary person or when concentrate feed was available. The crush test indicated animals were more agitated in a crush with 12% being difficult to handle by one person.”

Further health warnings were issued by Pat Griffin, senior inspector with the Health and Safety Authority with responsibility for the agriculture sector. Mr Griffin released data for the last 14 deaths due to bull attacks which showed six different breeds were involved (6 Charolais; 3 Limousin; 2 Friesian; 1 Simmental; 1 Hereford; 1 Montbeliarde).

When investigating fatal accidents HSA inspectors often hear a bull could be considered quiet for years and suddenly become angry and attack. The inspector advised farmers to be ready for this moment as a bull attack can be a horrendous occurrence.

“There is no such thing as a quiet bull,” warned Pat Griffin. “Always have escape routes planned and have a vehicle such as a 4X4 or a tractor ready in case of an attack.”

Mr Griffin stated 46% of livestock related deaths took place while farmers were herding in fields; 27% in farmyards and buildings; 23% when loading or unloading livestock; and a further 4% were associated with horses. He said 54% of victims were aged 65 or older, indicating that this age group should take particular care when coming into proximity with livestock.

The seminar was organised to consider solutions to the rising level of injury with livestock, with 65% of all farm injuries associated with cattle. The seminar was organised by the Farm Safety Partnership advisory committee to the Health and Safety Authority, in association with Teagasc and ICBF.