IN MOST bull sale catalogues, pre-sale information includes vendor recommendations for taking your new bulls home and introducing them to the new environment. However many producers may not always read these suggestions.

Additionally, there are other considerations for transport that may not always be appreciated at sale time or in the focus on arranging the logistics of transporting new herd bull replacements.

Given the physical characteristics and temperament of bulls, ensuring their welfare during transport is not only a matter of ethics but also an economic necessity.

Poor handling during transit can lead to stress, injuries, and reduced performance, all of which impact profitability.

Valuable insights

Two key studies, one by Stockman et al. (2011) and another by Goldhawk et al. (2014), provide valuable insights into the behavioural responses of bulls to transport conditions and the critical role of managing the microclimate within transportation vehicles. These studies form the foundation of best practice for transporting bulls, with a focus on reducing stress and enhancing overall animal welfare.

The study by Stockman et al. (2011) delved into how cattle, including bulls, react to road transport, focusing on animals that were either naive (those with little or no prior exposure to transportation) or habituated (animals with experience being transported).

The research highlighted that prior exposure to transport significantly impacts how bulls cope with the process. Naive bulls exhibited heightened stress levels compared to their habituated counterparts, demonstrating more erratic behaviour during transit and upon arrival at their destination.

This variation in behaviour underscores the importance of acclimatising bulls to transportation early in their lives. Bulls that have been previously exposed to transportation tend to adapt better, showing lower stress indicators such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and cortisol levels. This acclimatisation process helps bulls maintain better physical and psychological well-being during transport, ultimately minimising risks associated with handling and injuries.

Confinement

One of the primary stressors for bulls during transportation is the confinement and movement within the truck. Bulls, being naturally territorial and prone to aggression, may exhibit fighting behaviour during transport, especially if they are unfamiliar with the animals around them.

Stockman et al. suggested that proper social grouping prior to transport – penning bulls together before loading – can mitigate some of the stress caused by re-establishing social hierarchies during transit. Ensuring that bulls are familiar with their transport companions reduces the likelihood of aggressive interactions and injuries.

In addition to behavioural responses, the physical conditions within transport vehicles play a crucial role in determining the welfare outcomes for bulls. Goldhawk et al. (2014) conducted a study focusing on the micro-climate within trailers, particularly the effects of temperature, humidity, and ventilation on cattle welfare during long-haul transport. The study found that temperature and humidity levels within the trailer significantly impact the animals’ stress levels, with high temperatures exacerbating heat stress in bulls.

Bulls, especially those with higher body mass, are prone to heat stress during transport, which can lead to increased respiration rates, dehydration, and in extreme cases, death. Goldhawk et al. emphasised the importance of controlling the micro-climate within the trailer through proper ventilation, avoiding overcrowding, and scheduling transport during cooler parts of the day in hot climates.

In northern Australia, where temperatures often soar, this is particularly critical for maintaining the welfare of bulls over long distances.

Best practice

Based on the findings from these two studies, several best practices emerge that can improve the welfare of bulls during transportation:

• Acclimatisation to transport: Introducing bulls to transportation early in their lives helps them become habituated to the process. Familiarity with the truck environment, noises, and movements reduces stress during future transport events.
• Social Grouping: Bulls should be penned together before transportation to allow them to establish social hierarchies. This reduces the likelihood of aggressive interactions and injuries during transit.
• Microclimate Management: It is essential to monitor and control the temperature, humidity, and ventilation within the transport vehicle. Bulls are particularly susceptible to heat stress, so transport should be scheduled during cooler parts of the day, and vehicles should be equipped with adequate ventilation systems.
• Space and Rest: Providing enough space for bulls is critical to their welfare. Overcrowding increases the risk of injuries
• Handling and Preparation: Before loading, bulls should be well-fed and hydrated, with access to clean water and dry hay for at least 24 hours. Handlers should ensure that bulls are calm and accustomed to human interaction to minimize stress during loading and unloading.

Transporting bulls presents unique challenges due to their size, strength, and temperament. Focusing on reducing stress and ensuring proper environmental conditions within the transport vehicle is essential in ensuring best practice welfare for bulls.

By implementing these best practices – acclimatisation, proper social grouping, micro-climate management, and adequate rest – producers can enhance the welfare of bulls during transport, ultimately leading to better economic and production outcomes.

Alastair Rayner is the General Manager of Extension & Operations with Cibo Labs and Principal of RaynerAg.  Alastair has over 28 years’ experience advising beef producers & graziers across Australia.   He can be contacted here or through his website www.raynerag.com.au