In the first level of stress the herd pulls together and begins moving to another area for grazing, repeating a usual route. Parents nurse their young or lead them to whatever food is available. Sexual activity increases. When sufficient food is still not found and hunger increases, the second level of stress is reached. Animals still stay close to their offspring but the herd disperses over a much wider area and connections to the group diminish as the herd explores untried territory seeking food.
Some animals lose the herd entirely.
The animals change directions more often without as much reason as they will find themselves grazing territory already grazed without success. Animals are more sensitive and fights break out between members of the group. Mating becomes more competitive. At the final levels of stress and starvation the herd barely exists as a group anymore. Animals become disoriented and find themselves isolated.