Proximity of water buffaloes in their activities on pasture (grazing, moving, standing, ruminating, wallowing, lying, and drinking) and the effect of their age and gender on them was studied via social network analysis. Water buffaloes differentiate their social structure in the above activities and their age and gender affect the interacting patterns. A novel framework for the application of social network analysis on grazing animals' social behavioral studies was provided for future research.
Interannual and monthly variations of herbage production and nutritive value regarding the needs and welfare of grazing ruminants were evaluated in three grasslands located at different altitudes in northern Greece. The sub-alpine grassland was the most productive, with the highest mean annual CP content. Herbage Ca content was sufficient for the animals’ needs, while protein and phosphorus supplementation should be provided in order to cover their requirements and reach high levels of welfare.