TCFA Feedyard Technician Certification Practice Test

How is the eyesight of cattle commonly described?

1. Excellent

2. Adequate

3. Poor

4. Exceptional during daylight

The correct answer is: Poor

The eyesight of cattle is commonly described as poor due to several physiological factors related to their eye structure. Cattle have a wide-field of vision due to the positioning of their eyes on the sides of their heads, allowing them to detect motion and predators effectively. However, this anatomical feature limits their depth perception and ability to focus on objects directly in front of them. Additionally, their vision is less effective in low-light conditions, further contributing to the overall assessment of their eyesight as poor. Cattle see best in situations where there is plenty of light, which affects their ability to navigate effectively in dim environments. Their awareness of movement helps them respond to their surroundings, but this does not compensate for the poorer clarity or detail they can perceive. Thus, characterizing their eyesight as poor is consistent with these attributes, emphasizing the importance of their awareness of motion over the ability to see clearly.