Comanche Extension Agent Michael Berry
Acorn Poisoning and Farm and Ranch Program
Many cattle graze pastures and rangeland that also contain oak trees. We have a heavy mast crop this year, so there is the potential threat of cattle consuming acorns. Acorn poisoning is usually not an issue unless forage is short and cattle get a little hungry.
However, this is not always the case, cattle are curious and if there are lots of acorns they are likely to try them. For whatever reason, cattle like acorns and once they learn to eat them they are hooked and will seek them out.
The tannins in the acorns are what can cause gastrointestinal issues, kidney failure, and death in cattle. Often cattle that have been consuming acorns will have very dark, black, or bloody manure. Typically they will be dehydrated, will have a loss of appetite, weakness, and will usually just appear poorly. It is not uncommon for cattle to die if allowed continued access to acorns.
There is really no good treatment options for cattle that have been feeding on acorns to the point that they are exhibiting the more serious symptoms. If caught early, removal from the field or trap that has the acorns is the best option. Keeping adequate quality forage out for your cattle will often keep them from ever eating acorns in the first place. Later in the season, it appears acorns become less palatable and cattle are less likely to eat them.
Cattle are not the only livestock that have issues with acorns. Sheep have a similar liking for acorns and exhibit the same symptoms as cattle. Like cattle, sheep can die from acorn posioning if not caught early. Goats, horses, and other livestock can also get acorn poisoning but it appears to be much less likely than in cattle and sheep.
District 8 Farm & Ranch Seminar If you need to catch up on your private, commercial, or noncommercial applicator hours, here is your opportunity. The Farm and Ranch CEU Program gives you an opportunity to get 8 CEU’s in one day. The program will be held on Thursday, December 12th , 2024, at the De Leon City Auditorium (125 S Texas St, De Leon, TX 76444). This seminar will offer eight (8) CEU’s for the private applicator license and certificate holders. The approved credit hours are: Three (3) General, Two (2) Laws and Regulation, Two (2) IPM, and (1) Drift. Commercial and non- commercial license holders will be able to obtain all their needed hours for license renewal with the first 5 hours of the program.
The cost of registration is $60.00 and this price includes lunch. Doors will open at 7:00 AM with the program starting at 7:30 AM. Everyone is welcome to stay for just the morning session or for the whole day. The program will be offered with speakers live via internet, but the speakers will not be on the premises. To help us with the meal count, we do ask that you RSVP by Tuesday, December 10 th . To RSVP or if you have any questions, just give us a call at 325-356-2539.