2026-06-05
Ranching Under the Scorching Sun: How Do Shade Nets Safeguard Livestock Welfare?
High summer temperatures pose a serious threat to livestock welfare, easily triggering heat stress that leads to reduced feed intake, restlessness, and even heatstroke. The proper use of shade netting blocks a significant portion of solar radiation and noticeably lowers the perceived temperature, providing cattle and sheep with a comfortable, shaded resting area and mitigating heat stress at the source. This approach not only safeguards the animals' physical and mental well-being and allows for the expression of natural behaviors but also maintains normal feed intake and weight gain, serving as a cost-effective management measure that balances humane care with production efficiency.