compartments: rumen, omasum, abomasum, and the reticulum. Ruminants like cattle are commonly seen chewing their cud, which is a regurgitation of the roughage and feed they have eaten to aid in further digestion. Herd Behavior Cattle stay together in groups called herds, Figure 10-7. It is important to understand how herd animals behave as a group when working with livestock. Each animal will imitate the behavior of other animals in the herd, particularly the nearest ones. This behavior causes the herd to function as a single entity. For example, the herd will move in one direction away from perceived danger, such as a predator. This movement is not planned and occurs spontaneously as lead animals begin the movement and each subsequent animal makes the same move. This is important to understand because any real or perceived danger may cause a herd to panic, creating a dangerous situation for workers and cattle alike. It is also important to understand the natural hierarchy that forms in a herd. Lead animals establish their position and usually maintain it for extended periods of time. The herd composition continually changes as animals are added or culled (removed from the herd). This means the social structure changes each time the herd changes. Careful introduction of new cattle will help reduce the aggressive behavior and prevent potentially dangerous situations for workers and cattle. Maintaining Herd Health Since cattle are herd animals, sickness and disease may easily spread throughout a herd if the animals are not properly vaccinated or if they live in unsanitary conditions. Keep the following points in mind when raising cattle: „ Establish a complete herd health program and consistently implement regular vaccination and parasite control programs. American Hereford Association Figure 10-7. A good understanding of natural herd behavior may help workers stay safe and prevent harm to the cattle. Aside from reading reputable publications, how can you develop your own understanding of herd behavior? Who would be a good resource? Chapter 10 Large-Animal Production 513 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.