Qualitative evaluation of the behavior of stockpersons and young dairy heifers reared in tropical conditions

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between young dairy heifers and stockpersons’ behavior using a Qualitative Behavior Assessment (QBA) across 26 dairy farms in Minas Gerais and São Paulo, Brazil. The farms housed Girolando cattle (Gir × Holstein), and behavioral evaluations were performed during the suckling management phase with at least five calves per farm. Descriptors established by the Welfare Quality® protocol were scored on a visual analog scale (VAS) ranging from 0 to 150 mm. Additional data on farm characteristics were collected to contextualize the findings. A principal component analysis (PCA) of 20 descriptors describing the behavior of both stockpersons and heifers identified two main components. PC1 represented negative welfare states, while PC2 indicated positive welfare states. PC1 accounted for greater variability (45.33 %) compared to PC2 (17.97 %). Positive correlations were observed for descriptors such as “active,” “relaxed,” “calm,” “inquisitive,” “restless,” “sociable,” and “happy” in both stockpersons and calves, reflecting similar behavioral patterns. Negative welfare states contributed more significantly to the variability in PC1, while positive states had a smaller impact. The moderate correlation between descriptors describing stockpersons and calves highlights the interconnectedness of their behaviors. The study’s findings emphasize that human-animal interactions directly influence welfare outcomes. Effective management practices, particularly during the suckling phase, play a critical role in fostering positive welfare states in Girolando calves. These results provide a foundation for improving farm management strategies to enhance overall animal well-being.