Cows? Yes, cows! The newspaper headline in 2015 The world an article with the headline: More deaths from cows than from great white sharks. In fact, dangerous encounters between cows and hikers or bikers occur time and again - even with fatal consequences. According to statistics from the German Social Insurance for Landscape, Forestry and Horticulture, there were four fatal incidents in 2014. In one particular case, a pensioner and her dog came under the hooves in Bavaria.
Dogs are reminiscent of wolves, and these are among the cow's natural enemies. If you have a dog with you as a biker, you should not let it run around freely, but keep it on a short lead. - Dörte Röhl, veterinarian
Time and again we read about attacks by cows. This summer was no exception: a serious incident occurred in Hochfilzen (Tyrol): a 57-year-old hiker was attacked by several cows in a fenced-in pasture. The man was walking with his dog when the animals suddenly charged at him and pushed him to the ground. Several eyewitnesses intervened, chased the herd away and provided first aid. The injured man was flown to hospital by rescue helicopter.
The last incident that went viral on the web took place in northern China (see video). However, a hiker is said to have provoked the cow beforehand.
When do cows react aggressively?
As reported by Bayerischer Rundfunk (BR), attacks by cows are often triggered by careless behaviour on the part of hikers. Cows are not aggressive by nature, but are particularly sensitive in the vicinity of their calves. The fact that dogs are usually involved in such incidents is no coincidence, says vet Dörte Röhl, who has experience with cows on mountain pastures. Dogs pose a threat to cows - especially when calves are on the pasture, this often triggers a protective reflex in cows. "Dogs are reminiscent of wolves, and these are among the cow's natural enemies. If you have a dog with you as a biker, you should not let it run around freely, but keep it on a short lead," advises Röhl.
BR therefore recommends not leaving marked paths, always keeping dogs on a lead and keeping a distance of at least 20 to 50 metres from cows. If the animals approach, hikers should retreat calmly and slowly. In an acutely dangerous situation, a targeted blow to the nose can deter the animal. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to prevent incidents through prudent behaviour.
Interpreting signals
Also helpful: interpreting a cow's signals. If the cow lowers its head, stares at the other person and possibly even paws, then caution is advised, explains Röhl. In this case, it is important to remain calm, not to look the cow directly in the eye, to avoid shouting loudly and to move away slowly - without turning your back on the cow. You should only run away if the rescue fence is not far away. This is because cows can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h.
"Hey cow": This is what you should do as a biker
In contrast to hikers, bikers often approach faster. This can frighten cows and cause them to react uncontrollably. In this case, it helps to draw the cow's attention to you at an appropriate volume and at a distance - for example with a quiet "Hey, cow".
If there is enough space between the cow and the biker when you cross a cow pasture or a trail, it is sufficient to ride past the cows slowly and at a safe distance. If the cow is standing directly on the trail, you should approach slowly and always dismount, advises the expert. This is because fast movements frighten the cow - which usually creates dangerous situations. It is best to place the bike between the cow and the biker.
You should be particularly careful when calves are present. In such cases, it is worth giving them a wide berth, even if you have to leave the trail to do so. As a rule, however, cows are not aggressive, just curious.
Incidentally, the expert advises against feeding. Although cows have very pronounced social behaviour, there are also hierarchies and food envy in the herd.
What to do in a nutshell
- Always keep dogs on a lead
- Keep at least 20 to 50 metres away from cows
- Do not look directly into the cow's eyes
- Keep calm, no loud noises or sudden movements
- Withdraw slowly and carefully, do not run away
- Pay attention to cow signals: Lower head, fixation or hoof scratching = warning signs
- Dismount slowly in the event of close contact (if you are cycling)
- Do not feed cows or try to stroke them
- In case of danger, a targeted blow to the nose can help to scare the cow off
Useless cow knowledge
Another bit of useless knowledge: According to a study by the University of Madison, the milk production of cows exposed to classical music increases by 7.5 per cent. Conversely, a German study showed that music by the Wildecker Herzbuben reduces milk yield by 2.5 per cent. Well, better get out the violin and fiddle Beethoven.
Laurin Lehner
Editor
