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pp.118-127
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different rearing spaces on growth performances, behavioral traits, and blood parameters in Hanwoo (Korean Native Cattle) heifers and steers. The average daily gain and feed conversion ratio were measured to assess the growth performance. A total of 54 Hanwoo heifers and steers at 18 months old, were housed separately in groups of 2, 3 or 4 heads in a pen (32 m2) for nine months. In the case of the heifers, the growth performances were significantly (p<0.05) improved by increasing the 2 head group size with the exception of the 18 month old heifers. However, among the steers the growth performances were significantly enhanced (p<0.05) after 18 months of age, by increasing the 3 heads group size. In addition, the heifers in groups of 2 heads spent less time standing and more time lying down or walking, and also had a significantly (p<0.05) lower frequency of self-grooming, scratching, and fighting. These findings are similar to the results obtained for steers housed in 2 or 3 heads per group. The steers housed in 2, 3 heads groups spent more time feeding and consequently had a significantly (p<0.05) lower frequency of pair-wise grooming and Leaning. The heifers and steers housed in groups of 4 heads showed lowest red blood cell counts, but highest cortisol content with statistical significance at p<0.05. The heifers in groups of 2 heads had the highest hemoglobin concentrations (p<0.05). On the other hand, white blood cell count was found to be the lowest in groups of 2 steers with statistical significance at p<0.05. We conclude that a large rearing space improved growth performances, behavioral characteristics, and blood parameters in Hanwoo heifers and steers. In the future, this data could be used to improve the welfare of rearing Hanwoo cattle.
