Positive Correlation of Social Rank and Hair Cortisol Concentration in Group-Housed Pregnant Cows.

In intensive beef production systems, social dominance relationships among cattle and human-cattle relationships constantly affect cattle welfare. However, these factors have not been investigated to assess their long-term effects on cattle welfare. In this study, the relations of hair cortisol concentrations of group-housed pregnant cows with their social rank and avoidance distance when approached by humans were analysed.