Welfare Science

Cattle Welfare and Biodiversity on Farms

Farming practices that improve cattle welfare often simultaneously create conditions beneficial for farmland biodiversity.

Key Facts

Diverse pastures with mixed species have higher invertebrate diversity and support more wildlife
Reduced antibiotic use decreases impacts on dung beetle communities essential for nutrient cycling
Lower stocking densities allow more ground cover beneficial for ground-nesting birds
Organic systems show higher biodiversity measures alongside welfare certification benefits
The convergence of welfare and biodiversity goals creates opportunities for integrated standards

Welfare Considerations

The alignment between cattle welfare and farmland biodiversity provides a powerful joint argument for more extensive, lower-input farming systems. Where welfare and biodiversity goals converge, the case for change to producers and policymakers is stronger.

What You Can Do

Support farming systems that deliver both welfare and biodiversity benefits
Advocate for integrated standards that reward welfare and biodiversity together
Choose beef and dairy from farms with documented biodiversity alongside welfare management