Efeitos da disponibilidade de sombra sobre o desempenho, atividades comportamentais e parmetros fisiológicos de vacas da raça Pitangueiras

Abstract

The objective of this trial was to analyze milk production, milk composition, fatty acid profile, physiological parameters, and behavior of Pitangueiras cows under grazing conditions and submitted to the presence or absence of shade in the paddock. The environment was monitored daily using a meteorological station at the research site. A complete randomized experimental design was used and 20 lactating cows were allocated in paddocks with or without shade. Daily milk productivity did not differ among cows. There was also no difference in the fatty acid profile and milk composition. Cows with shade available stayed under the shade during periods where thermal comfort index was greater. Physiological responses did not show significant differences; however, differences were observed between morning and afternoon periods, with greater values observed for the afternoon period. The use of artificial shade favored animal weight gain and long-chain fatty acid profile under high thermal comfort index. In this condition, the shade to Pitangueiras cows breed is advised.