Behavior depends on consequences.Positive consequences increase and negative
consequences decrease the likelihood of a behavior.
That's the key to understanding and changing animal behavior in ways that will improve their health, the land you manage and your bottom-line. It's a simple idea, and one we use every day. We use it to keep cows in pastures with a thin line of electric fence, knowing they won't risk the consequence of a shock. We use it to train our pets by offering them treats whenever they do as we ask.
A Longhorn heifer munches on leafy spurge.
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But we could use it for so much more. We've invited you to Joe's Diner to show you how you can use this simple idea to change what and where your animals eat so they:
- do the dirty work of ridding your farm or ranch of weeds,
- are prepared for and gain weight more quickly in feedlot,
- stay out of streams and ponds, and
- make better use of available forage.
Brain Food
The four meals we've prepared for you are the result of several decades of research exploring the complex results of this simple principle as genes interact with and adapt to changing social and physical environments. "Appetizers" focus on considering an old problem in a new light. "Main Courses" provide the foundation for new techniques. "Dessert" gives examples of how you can implement these techniques at home and "Play With Your Food" lets you try things away from the computer. "Digestion" brings it all together by letting you try out new solutions to examples of problems others have encountered. Read on for the key points you'll find in each meal. |
