Applying thermal imaging software to cattle grazing winter range

 1.Metabolic demands of cattle grazing winter range may be over-predicted by models that do not account for animal behavior. Cattle may conserve energy and mitigate cold stress by short-term behavioral responses.2.We solved the thermal balance equation for a revolving three-dimensional model using advanced thermal solution software to simulate unconstrained cattle during winter. This software, developed for inanimate objects, predicted energetic requirements within expected range of values.3.Solar radiation and apparent surface area were instrumental in reducing energy requirements, especially on cold clear days, whereas wind velocity and ambient temperature had a lesser effect on well-insulated cows in good body condition.