In a three-year study, shaded pregnant cows had lower body temperatures; their calves were slightly heavier at birth.
Shade during late pregnancy
A USDA Agricultural Research Service and university team followed 176 pregnant Brangus-cross cows over three years. About three months before calving, the cows were assigned to 16 pastures. Eight pastures provided artificial shade of 3.27 square metres per cow for the first 90 days; the other eight did not. The manuscript was accepted on 5 October 2026.
Cow and calf observations
Cows with shade had lower body temperatures and better body-condition scores. Researchers also found differences in metabolic markers and the vaginal microbiome before calving. Calves from the shaded group were slightly heavier at birth. The source lists an acceptance date but no publication date for the journal article.