Dairy cows produce more milk for heifers than for baby bulls, according to new research from Kansas State University and Harvard University.
Researchers studied lactation records for more than one million dairy cattle across the country.
Their findings contradicted evolutionary biology theories that predicted bias was in favor of sons. The cows actually produced more milk for their female offspring.
“Daughters seemed to have the most dramatic effect on the initial development of the mammary gland because the bias against sons was greatest in the first lactation,” said K-State Department of Animal Sciences and Industry associate professor Barry Bradford.
The study also found that the sex of the first baby might determine the amount of milk produced for the following children.
The results were available in the scientific journal PLOS One.
Rodeo Austin exhibitor Kash Morrison reflects on how FFA taught him the importance of hard work and time management while competing in livestock shows during the school year.
March 30, 2026 01:31 PM
·
Firefighters are making good progress on two major wildfires burning across parts of Nebraska.
March 30, 2026 01:16 PM
·
Processing disruptions could impact cattle markets if the strike continues.
March 30, 2026 01:08 PM
·
At the White House’s “Celebration of Agriculture,” the Trump Administration announced a slate of policies to support farmers and ranchers, including biofuel mandates, SBA loan programs, and new labeling policies to boost domestic markets for ag products.
March 30, 2026 01:01 PM
·
South Texas farmers face worsening drought as Mexico falls short on water payments, leaving producers struggling for irrigation under the 1944 treaty.
March 30, 2026 11:42 AM
·
Expanded access could boost demand for U.S. exports.
March 30, 2026 11:41 AM
·
