This study investigated the distribution and landscape selection of grazing cattle using a global positioning system (GPS) to track cattle. Brahman cows were fitted with BlueskyTM GPS collars for 8 weeks. The study area had a single water point and contained a wide diversity of land types. The data indicated grazing preferences were initially limited to a 250 ha cleared area of clay soil sown with Cenchrus cilliaris. Thereafter, animals moved on to less fertile, outlying areas of Eucalyptus and Acacia agyrodendron native pasture woodland. Animals avoided areas dominated by steep terrain and travelled a maximum of 4.1 km from water. The study confirms that grazing preferences can be interpreted through GPS and satellite imagery for commercial operations. Areas susceptible to over-grazing can be identified and sustainable land management practices adopted accordingly.
Renmark, South Australia
ISSN 1323 660
Full-text publications from the Australian Rangelands Society (ARS) Biennial Conference Proceedings (1997-), Rangeland Journal (ARS/CSIRO; 1976-), plus videos and other resources about the rangelands of Australia.