Fear of humans is an important welfare indicator for many reasons. First of all, fear reactions are the most immediate responses that the animals show to potentially dangerous stimuli in the environment. Secondly, it is associated with physiological stress and has negative effects on growth, food intake (performance), important health parameters (immune status) and, not least, reproductive performance (Gonyou et al., 1986; Hemsworth
et al., 1981, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1994, 1999; Boissy, 1995; Jones, 1997; Janczak et al., 2003a). Fear responses to humans show great similarities between different species of farm animals, and can be easily monitored both under experimental conditions (e.g. Janczak et al., 2003b), and on commercial farms (e.g. Hemsworth et al., 1994). Furthermore, fear responses are fairly consistent over time (i.e. represent a part of personality; Janczak et al.,
2003b). Because of the many negative effects of fear of humans, this is an important measure of welfare as well as of great economic interest to the farmer. Even in larger herds, where handling may be minimised by increased technology and more effective handling facilities, there will still be situations where direct contact with the animals is necessary. Positive and consistent handling should therefore be of great importance in any production
system.

Sandra Edwards