Humans fear bulls because of their anger, rage, and aggression. They are less socialized and more aggressive than cows. For that reason, people don’t dare to step foot in an area with a bull in it.

Are you wondering why bulls are so angry? Some influential factors have a significant impact on their behavior.  Bulls get angry because of these external and internal factors.

Some bulls are genetically aggressive, whereas others become aggressive because of torture, mishandling, and other factors.

The bulls are territorial animals that have higher testosterone hormone levels and less social interaction.

Such attributes can make them angry. So, it’s wise to keep a safe distance from angry bulls; otherwise, they will attack you. 

Why are Bulls So Aggressive?

Bulls are aggressive in nature. However, some might be more aggressive than others. How aggressive they can depend on the breed as well as some underlying factors.

1. Brain Chemicals and Testosterone Level

Bull’s aggressive behavior often can be linked to a hormone called testosterone and the presence of neuropeptide chemicals in the brain.

A higher level of testosterone in their body specifies more strength and masculinity, such as muscle mass, bone mass, and also aggressive temperament.

Besides this hormone, the neuropeptide chemical also leads to aggressiveness and increases pain tolerance.

2. Territorial

Bulls are very territorial about their partners and space. They can become aggressive and violent when walkers or other animals enter their territory and won’t shy away from attacking. 

3. Maltreatment by Human 

If bulls are bothered, taunted, beaten, or somehow harassed by humans, they will attack more aggressively.

4. Isolated from the Herd

As bulls are herd animals, naturally, they tend to be social. But they become more aggressive when they are kept and raised in isolation. These bulls are not raised with their mothers, so they don’t get the chance to be socialized.

5. Insufficient Food

Insufficient food means hunger. When the bulls are hungry, they will automatically lose their temper. To counter this issue, ascertain that enough food and water are available there. 

Also, make sure to reduce the density of cattle on the farm so that space and food will be adequate for them.

How Strong is a Bull?

Bulls are strong enough to weigh up to 3000 pounds. They can pull objects of their own body weight. They can even flip a car. 

They are much more muscular than cows. The strength comes from extreme muscle mass. 

Farmers selectively breed only the strongest and biggest bulls to advance the next generation. Plus, their strengths gradually increase over time. 

These ruminants digest a significant amount of animal protein in the form of Protozoans, which helps them get so muscular.

Why Do Bull Hate Red?

There is a misconception based on bullfighting. People believe that the red color is associated with the aggressiveness and anger of the bull. 

But what is the fact? Is it true?

The answer is that bulls do not hate red. They have dichromatic color vision. That means they are color blind to the red color.

So, during bullfighting, when the bullfighter waves a red cape in front of the bull to enrage it. Bulls get irritated by the aggressive whipping of the red cape, making them attack the person holding it.

Why Do Bull Attack Humans?

Bulls are extremely dangerous animals, and they can inflict injury to humans in seconds, either intentionally or by accident. They could attack you without a second thought if you enter their territory.

They will surely charge at you if you maltreat them, such as hit, stone, taunt, or beat them.  

Additionally, if you interrupt them at the time of their breeding, they will attack. They can also attack to show their dominating power.

How to Escape a Bull?

Escaping from a threatening bull is crucial for your safety and survival. Knowledge of how to escape or avoid a dangerous bull is of the greatest importance, especially when working on a ranch of bulls or passing the territory that contains bulls. 

However, here are some tips on how you can escape a bull’s attack –

1. Bring a Weapon to Defend

When you really have to pass the same corral with a bull, don’t forget to bring a walking stick, heavy branch, ax handle, or pipe.

When the bull sees this kind of weapon in your hand, it will think twice before attacking you.

2. Look Around the Bull Before Entering the Territory 

When you find a bull in the pasture, try to avoid the route if possible. Even if it takes a long walk to reach the destination, it will be the best and safest way for you. 

3. Observe the Sign of Aggression

Before entering their territory, check whether it warns you of danger signs or not. When a bull considers you a threat, it will also threaten to keep you away. 

The danger signs include –

• Tossing the head
• Slightly raising the tail
• Pointing the forehead toward you by lowering the head
• Staring fiercely at you
• Observing your movement
• Growling or bellowing

4. Stay Near the Obstacles

Don’t walk through the center of the herd. Rather walk close to the fence or other obstacles for a quick escape. Because when you feel the bull attack you, you can climb over the fence to protect yourself from the bull’s charge. 

5. Don’t Make an Eye Contact

Never make eye contact with the bull, as there is a huge possibility that the bull will misinterpret it and take it as aggressive behavior. It’s wise not to show your back to the bull because these suspicious attitudes can irritate them.

6. Pass Calmly through the Area

Unless you pass directly in front of the bull or quickly move, the bull cannot easily trace you. So, once you are in their territory, be mindful of walking at a normal pace, and don’t run or avoid other movements that encourage the bull to charge you.

7. Back Away to the Exit

If the bull seems aggressive and shows you any sign of danger, just back away calmly to the nearest exit. Don’t dare to run, as it enrages the bull. Walk diagonally or backward without turning back toward it.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Do Bulls Do When Angry?

When bulls get angry, they come into fight mode. Their horns are capable of doing the maximum injury. And they do so when they are extremely angry. Then their attacks are painful, dangerous, and even life-threatening. 

Similarly, when their anger arises from fear or other reasons, they only kick to defend themselves. 

2. Are Bulls Aggressive to Humans?

Yes, bulls are aggressive because of their natural instinct. As we mentioned, they possess testosterone hormone and neuropeptide chemicals, making them aggressive.

Once they become aggressive, they can and will attack humans without provocation. Sometimes, the attacks are so serious that it could even cause a person’s death. 

3. How to Handle Bulls Safely?

Bulls are one of the most dangerous animals on the farm. So, handling them safely is crucial to prevent injuries, accidents, and fatalities. 

Some quick facts are here – 

• Don’t keep them off the farm premises.
• When a bull is raised on the farm, carefully monitor its movement so it cannot escape through the fence. 
• Don’t allow children to come near the bull even if the bull has always been nice.
• Alert the visitors by telling them, ‘this is a bull’s territory.’
• If you are working with the bull, always stay calm and set an escape plan in your mind in case of an emergency. 

In Closing

The way bulls are cared for and handled determines how angry or aggressive they will become. Plus, they have some natural instincts. So, it’s better not to have more bulls in the herd to avoid bullfights. 

Moreover, when you choose a bull for your herd, don’t just focus on its size and fertility. Also, consider its temperament because if they possess a higher temperament, it will be tough for you to handle it.