Longford farming news: 'Recognise the risk' -When a quiet cow can turn aggressive

By Kirsty Sweet, MAIS Research Student (UCD) Teagasc (Walsh Scholar)

As we head towards Spring calving for most livestock farmers this is one of the most demanding times of the year.

Long hours, broken sleep and pressure to get calves on the ground safely are all part of it.

It is also one of the most dangerous times in livestock farming.

Cows protecting a newborn calf can become extremely dangerous within seconds.

Many serious injuries – and fatalities – happen during calving, often involving animals that were previously considered quiet.

Recognise the risk and acknowledging close calls as more than “just one of those things” is important.

Take decisive action during calving
Dangerous moments often occur when handling the calf or intervening during calving.
This is where distance and control matter.

Practical steps can make a real difference

Protect yourself from the cow when handling the calf – never assume she will tolerate close contact, use a calving gate or barrier to restrain or separate the cow before assisting and always have a clear escape route planned before entering a pen.

Avoid working in confined spaces, particularly when alone, purpose-designed facilities with calving gates, solid barriers, good lighting and sensible pen layouts greatly reduce risk.

At the same time, many farmers are working with older sheds, by improving how existing gates are used, fixing damaged fittings, improving visibility, or considering the flow of cattle it is possible to reduce the risk.

Grants and supports like 60% TAMS 3 funding from the DAFM can help with targeted upgrades, but small changes can also make a big difference.

Top calving safety tips
Keep distance whenever possible, never turn your back on a freshly calved cow and use gates, barriers and pen

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