Enrichment preferences of pasture-raised beef cattle

Abstract

This data collection contains behavioural and weather data for 56 Angus steers housed at pasture, with four enrichments presented simultaneously (grooming brush, tree stump, hanging rope, woodchip pile). The work aimed to determine the preferences of cattle for these enrichments. Groups of 7 Angus steers were housed in 4 neighbouring paddocks, tested over two cohorts. Each paddock contained pasture and a water source, along with a grooming brush, tree stump, hanging rope, and woodchip pile. Observations of interactions with enrichments were recorded for a minimum of 12 hours daily (Cohort 1: 07:00-19:00; Cohort 2: 06:30-19:45). Observations occurred on two consecutive days weekly for a period of 3 weeks. Daily weather details (temperature, rainfall, humidity, wind) are also included.