What type of damage do cattle and livestock inflict on young trees?

The type of damage that cattle and livestock inflict on young trees is primarily through trampling and breaking. Young trees are particularly vulnerable as they often do not have the robust structure of mature trees. When cattle and other livestock graze in an area where young trees are present, their movement can lead to trampling, which compresses the soil around the tree and can damage roots. Additionally, livestock may inadvertently break branches or uproot young trees simply by walking through the area.

This type of damage is critically severe because it can stunt the growth of young trees and in many cases can lead to mortality if the damage is significant enough. Girdling bark and other forms of damage caused by chewing or eating may also occur, but the primary concern in this context is the physical impact of livestock on the trees. Therefore, recognizing trampling and breaking as a significant threat helps in planning for effective wildlife management practices to protect young trees in grazing areas.