Cows And Their Besties
Recent research by the Northampton University reports that cows in fact prefer the company of a best friend. It also suggests that the overall well- being of cows benefit from having that bestie close by.
During the study, cows were monitored for 30-minute intervals. Their heartrates were measured while penned alone, with a known cow, and then with an unknown cow. Heartrates were elevated, and the cow showed stress when not with her friend. The reduced stress levels are thought to benefit milk yields and overall welfare, especially when moving stock around.
While Texas Longhorns were not part of the study, many breeders believe Longhorn cattle have best friends as well. They are herding animals, and the bond can be seen throughout pasture movement. What are your thoughts? Join the discussion on
Facebook.
Knock On Wood
Everyone has heard the expression, “knock on wood.” Most of the time, it is accompanied by the gesture of a hand knocking on wood. Have you ever wondered where the superstition originated?
One belief is that it started with ancient pagan cultures. The Celts, for instance, strongly believed that knocking on “wood” awakened the spirits and gods that lived in the trees. The gesture called for their protection. Another belief held that knocking would prevent evil spirits from listening in when someone boasted about good fortune.
Many cultures still “knock on wood,” but with their own variations. Turkish people knock twice and pull an earlobe to ward off bad luck. Italians say the phrase, “touch iron,” which goes along with nailing a horseshoe to front doors to keep the devil away. Indonesians will knock on their forehead. Either way, most cultures will not tempt fate and
continue to knock on wood.
More Fun Facts
• Today’s American farmer feeds about 155 people worldwide. In 1960, that number was 25.8.
• Agriculture employs more than 24 million American workers (17 percent of the total U.S. work force).
• Pigs are thought to be the 4th most intelligent animal, after chimps, dolphins, and elephants. Pigs can also run 11 miles per hour, which is faster than a 6-minute mile.
• Mason jars, used for home canning, were invented in 1858. 46 46 TEXAS L S LONGHORN JOURNRN JOURNAL i MAR PR MAR/APR 2018 18
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