TCFA Feedyard Technician Certification Practice Test

What is the first impulse of cattle when confronted by a human?

1. To flee immediately

2. To stand their ground

3. To bunch up or move away

4. To charge forward

The correct answer is: To bunch up or move away

When cattle encounter a human, their first instinct is often to bunch up or move away. This behavior is a reflection of their herd mentality, where animals tend to stay close together for protection and to feel safe. When faced with a potential threat, such as a human, cattle may cluster with other members of their group, as this is a natural response to gather strength in numbers. Additionally, while some may choose to move away to create distance, this reaction can vary depending on the individual animal's temperament or prior experiences with humans. In a stressful situation, pressure from the human presence can lead to group dynamics where the entire herd reacts, demonstrating the importance of understanding cattle behavior for effective management and safety in a feedyard environment.