What Causes a Rodeo Bull to Buck?

Bull riding is an integral event to rodeos. A rider places himself on top of a bull in a pen, grabs a long rope, and then tries to stay on for as long as possible while the bull tries to buck him off. The bull bucks for several reasons, including how it is bred and how it naturally reacts to having something on top of it.

  1. Natural Urge

    • Bulls are not domesticated riding animals and have not been trained like most horses to take riders. The weight of a rider on its back is foreign to the bull, and its natural response is to get rid of that weight as soon as possible. When the weight is gone, the bull tends to calm down. This is illustrated by the fact that most bulls stop bucking as soon as a rider is thrown. In most rodeos, a clown will distract the bull so the fallen rider can get up and get to safety.

    Breeding

    • Successful rodeo bulls that can throw the majority of their riders are in high demand as breeding stock. Rodeo bulls are bred for both strength and determination. The thinking is, the stronger a bull is, the harder it will buck, and the more fans will pay to see it. According to the Professional Bull Rider's Association website, genetics are the "most prevalent factor in determining a bull's desire and ability to buck."

    Equipment

    • A flank strap is the only piece of equipment used to encourage a bull to buck. Flank straps are wool or synthetic ropes tied around the bull's flank. The presence of the flank causes mild irritation to the bull. The straps are put on moments before the rider mounts the bull. The bull will kick with more force to try to break the strap. The flank strap is removed by rodeo handlers right after the ride.

    Welfare

    • The Humane Society has argued that bull riding is dangerous not only for the rider, but for the bull itself. For example, the Humane Society has claimed the flank strap is attached to the bull's genitals. The PBR denies that and says the flank strap in that spot would hurt the bull and its performance. But, the PBR has added rules to protect the welfare of competition bulls. Those regulations include banning the use of cattle prods and regulating humane transportation procedures for the bulls.