Cow-Calf Certification Practice Exam

True or False: Young calves tend to select higher quality diets than mature cows.

1. True

2. False

3. Only in the winter

4. It depends on the forage type

The correct answer is: True

Young calves tend to select higher quality diets than mature cows due to their nutritional needs and dietary preferences. As they are in a growth phase, calves require a diet rich in protein and energy to support their development. This often leads them to graze on more nutrient-dense forage, such as young grasses or legumes, which can enhance their growth and overall health. In contrast, mature cows may prioritize foraging efficiency over dietary quality, sometimes opting for lower quality roughage, particularly when they are not in a lactation cycle or when they have lower nutritional demands. This tendency can result in older cows consuming forage that is more fibrous and less palatable, which may not offer the same level of nutrients that younger animals seek. The other options do not accurately reflect the general behavior of young calves in comparison to mature cows regarding diet selection. For instance, the suggestion that it is only true in the winter or depends on forage type does not capture the broader trend observed across different seasons and foraging situations. Hence, the assertion that young calves consistently select higher quality diets holds true in a general sense.