Maternal Behavior

摘要

The bonding process is how a cow identifies her new calf and commits to caring for and protecting it. It's a complex blend of hormonal-induced and learned behavior. Of course, experience is part of the equation. Mature cows are more apt to quickly and successfully mother their offspring than first-time heifers. Older cows tend to be more consistent mothers and have more maternal drive than heifers, but hormones are the key factor.