Why do cows in fields run after trains?

Question

I think there should be a law that train engineers should have to slow down so the cows do not do themselves an injury.

Do you know why cows run after trains? It is cruel for train engineers to provoke them.

Would you join a committee to study this problem?

Answer 1

This is why trains have cow catchers.

Answer 2

Well cows in Wales (UK) certainly don't seem to run AWAY from trains very often - I hit one at 80mph in the pitch dark a few months ago and it didn't even attempt to move. Wasn't too much left afterwards either, but I'll spare the details.

And I have seen a few cattle here actually running in the fields alongside the train, but they don't need or get any provoking, they just do it. Horses also do, and dogs love chasing trains.

Answer 3

They do? I can't say i have ever witnessed that nor even given it any thought.

I do think however that that is rather cruel.

Answer 4

I spent time on farms when I was growing up and never saw cows run.  They may have picked up speed when I gate was unlocked and a road unwatched.  They never ran though.

Answer 5

I have to say, I've never seen one outside my window runnin' with me.  Running from, yes.  Or, not moving at all and winding up as instant hamburger.

There was a time, when an engineer struck a cow and it is apparent it was avoidable, the value of the livestock killed would be deducted from the engineer's pay.

There is still a lot of open range out there, and the occasional cow is gonna get clipped.

Answer 6

Interesting... I frequently take the ACE (Altamont Commuter Express) train in Northern California, and it runs through some SERIOUS cow-territory.

I have NEVER seen the cows engage the train in ANY sort of race, and only ONCE have we had cows who broke through a fence and had crowded the rails.

I GUESS CALIFORNIA COWS are just more contented and better behaved...  California Cows make Better CHEESE !