Why do most cows in a field face the same direction?
Cows tend to stand and graze around a field facing the same way as each other to avoid threats to, and within, the herd.
Asked by: Raymond Leslie, West Calder
Cows are herd animals and stick together to reduce the threat from predators. It makes sense for them all to graze in the same direction, so the herd stays together as it drifts around the field or across the savannah. Facing the same way also cuts down on conflict in the herd because it avoids head-to-head confrontations.
Read more:
- Why are cowpats sloppier than other herbivore droppings?
- If you fed cows strawberries, would they make strawberry flavour milk?
Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.
Authors
Subscription offer
Subscribe and try your first 3 issues for just £5. After your introductory period you will pay just £22.99 every 6 issues by Direct Debit. Receive every issue delivered direct to your door with FREE UK delivery.
