heat stress

Southern Plains Bison Pointers-June2017

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  It’s Hot Out   The heat lamp is on which means everything changes for our herds. One of the things that changes are decisions we make about animal-ops and how we consider their well-being affected by the ambient temperature.  When the heat rises so does stress, and that leads to additional ‘weakness’, or reduced resilience. This means we do as little ‘with them’ as possible that involves handling or creating any hardship cycles in the habitat. It’s Texas and the Southern Plains and there is no relief, even in the evening. This can be the reason for late-born calves … Read more

Southern Plains Pointers: Aug 2013

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Southern Plains Pointers The dog-days of summer are upon us in the southern plains and hopefully we have all our preparations for a strong breeding season in order and working. If you’re catching up, then exhaust solutions to herd management that do not_ require high levels of stress, handling or hauling. If this is not possible, then plan activities at night, dusk or dawn. In July and August, if I have to haul bison, I prefer to do it at night. This decision transcends humane to shrewd-business whereas heat-stress will_ directly effect my bottom line. Keep an eye on your … Read more

Southern Plains Bison: July 2013

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It’s getting crazy out there! Bulls are ‘roaring’, tending and sparring causing you to begin sensing that you might not be as safe out there on foot all of the sudden. Trust your senses…. And don’t be out there on foot this time of year. They’re busy and other than feeding, they require the benefit of our absence. Feeding is a smart thing to do in the summer if Texas bison is your bag.  Another smart thing to do is planning for the coming fall, winter and your marketing strategy options with plenty of time to consider many alternatives. Planning … Read more