Evaluación comportamental y adaptativa de vacas en lactancia Costeño con Cuernos y Gyrolando bajo condiciones de bosque seco tropical (Colombia)

Heat stress is one of the main challenges for cattle production in tropical regions, as it affects both animal welfare and productive efficiency. This study aimed to characterize the behavior of Costeño con Cuernos (CCC) and Gyrolando cattle under tropical dry forest conditions in Colombia, assessing their behavioral responses across different time periods and microclimatic conditions. The research was conducted in a silvopastoral system at the Motilonia Research Center of Agrosavia, located at an altitude of 106 m a.s.l., with a multiyear average temperature of 29.4 °C and an average relative humidity of 70%. Twelve lactating cows (six CCC and six Gyrolando) were observed from July to September 2023, and 20 behavioral variables, along with bioclimatic indicators such as the temperature–humidity index, were recorded. Data were analyzed using multiple correspondence analysis and hierarchical clustering. Results revealed two behavioral clusters: Cluster 1 (adverse climatic conditions) grouped animals that were more active during the hottest hours (12:00-14:00), with increased grazing activity and reduced resting behavior. This cluster consisted mainly of CCC cows. Cluster 2 (moderate climatic conditions) was characterized by predominant lying rumination, shaded resting, and lower overall activity, primarily involving Gyrolando cows. It is concluded that the native CCC breed exhibits more adaptive behavioral patterns under hot environmental conditions, underscoring its potential value for sustainable cattle production systems. The integration of multivariate tools and environmental monitoring allows the identification of management strategies aimed at improving animal welfare and productivity under extreme climatic conditions.