Cow-Calf Certification Practice Exam

True or False: During the growing season, cattle select diets that are higher in protein, digestibility, and phosphorus than what would be in a clipped sample.

1. True

2. False

3. Only for high-quality pastures

4. This is not a consistent finding

The correct answer is: True

Cattle, during the growing season, often select diets that are richer in essential nutrients such as protein, digestibility, and phosphorus compared to what might be found in a clipped sample from the pasture. This is primarily because during the growing season, pastures typically produce more lush and nutritious forage, which cattle are inclined to graze. Cattle have the ability to selectively graze, meaning they can choose specific plants or parts of plants that provide the best nutritional value. This selectivity helps them meet their nutritional requirements more effectively. In contrast, clipped samples often represent a uniform collection of grass or forage that may not account for the innate selectivity of the animals or the variation in forage quality, especially during peak growth periods. As a result, the statement is correct, reflecting the natural behavior of cattle to optimize their nutrient intake when grazing on high-quality forage. This behavior enhances their overall health and productivity during the growing season when nutrient availability is typically at its highest.