Cowjoy farm is a research based environment for cattle. We use research to guide our interactions with cattle, their environment and the enrichment opportunities we provide.
In this section we share some of the keys studies that influence our practice. We hope that these will also help others working with cattle reflect on their own practice and implement changes to improve well being of cows in their care.
Research over the last 30 years has given us far better insight into how cows percieve the world feel, behave and think. Find out more in our section on key studies into cattle behavior and psychology.
In addition, in recent years there has been an increase in the amount of research investigating the bond between cows and humans. This falls into two broad categories
Benefits to humans - the underpinning of the cow hugging movement
Benefits to cattle - guidance for those working with cattle on best practice: cattle handling, environment and enrichment
In addition to keeping up with the latest scientific research we make regular detailed observations of our own herd. We have three main focuses
Natural behaviors not normally found in commercial operations: family relationships, hierarchy in a mixed sex herd, mating when multiple males are present and intergenerational play.
Non commercial human cow interactions
Response to enrichment
Explore Cowjoy Farms Research Log
At Cowjoy Farm we work to increase understanding of cattle behavior
