Acute ergotism produces alkaloids, which are toxic.
These alkalods cause a degeneration of nervous tissue, hence the name staggers. Acute ergotism cattle twitch, tremble, become stiff-legged in the hind quarters, weak in the front legs, and are poorly coordinated. Chronic Ergotism - animals loose extremities. Bermudgrass staggers - tall rank growth with cool cloudy weather promotes fungi. Remove cattle from infested pastures.