POLLED LIVESTOCK Meaning and
Definition
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Polled livestock refers to animals, particularly cattle, which are naturally or artificially devoid of horns. The term "polled" originates from the genealogy of these livestock, as it indicates animals that have a specific genetic variation resulting in a lack of horns as a prominent physical characteristic. This particular breed or lineage of livestock is sought after and selected through breeding practices aimed at promoting hornlessness.
Naturally polled livestock possess a genetic mutation that prevents the growth of horns, unlike animals with horns which are typically found in their species. On the other hand, artificial pollination involves selective breeding techniques where individuals without horns are bred, resulting in offspring more likely to be polled. This practice ensures that successive generations of livestock inherit the desirable polled trait.
The benefits of polled livestock are numerous, especially for farmers and animal handlers. By lacking horns, these animals reduce the risk of injury or harm to themselves and others during feeding, transportation, or herding. Hornless livestock are also easier to handle, as the absence of horns eliminates the need for additional safety precautions during routine tasks such as milking, dehorning, or veterinary procedures.
Overall, polled livestock represents a significant advancement in animal husbandry and welfare. They provide a safer and more manageable option for farmers while still retaining the valuable genetic traits and characteristics of their respective breeds.
Etymology of POLLED LIVESTOCK
The word "polled" in reference to livestock stems from the Old English word "pol" meaning "head" or "top". In relation to livestock, "polled" describes animals that are naturally or genetically hornless, without horns or antlers. It is believed to have originated from the practice of removing horns from animals, leaving only the "pol" or top of the head. Over time, it came to specifically refer to livestock breeds that naturally lack horns, such as polled cattle or polled sheep.
