In the same pens, the scientists also recorded temperatures, using small black globes. The globes' dark color simulated the color of the Simmental-Angus steers. Small fans kept a steady flow of air on the devices to make temperature measurements more constant inside them. Heat like that can kill. During a respite between the first and second heat waves, animals tend to eat more to make up for their earlier loss of appetite.
Color of animals does affect their internal temperatures.
Darker animals soak up heat. But that doesn't necessarily mean that darker animals are more susceptible to heat stress. Hair quality, its length and its thickness could be factors. The ability to sweat also could be a factor. The Missouri research project will run at least another year and a half.