Animal Vision Cattle have panoramic vision, meaning they can see in all directions, except directly behind, without moving their head. Additionally, cattle have poor depth perception, especially when they are moving with their heads up. In order to see depth, they have to stop and put their heads down. For this reason, unfamiliar objects and shadows on the ground are the primary reasons for cattle balking and delaying the animals behind them. This is why it is important for handling and working facilities be constructed to minimize shadows.
Cattle have a tendency to move toward the light.
If working cattle at night, use frosted lamps that do not glare in the animal s faces. Position these lights in the area where you are moving cattle, such as a trailer or barn. Flight Zone Moving a group of cattle takes some knowledge and understanding of the animal s flight zone. The flight zone is an animal s personal space. When a person penetrates the flight zone, the animal will move.