My old bull is the friendliest animal I've got. Accoss a fence he constantly tries to lick me. Hubby says he's just trying to warm me up. In the pen he stays away, but likes a scratch from over the fence.
I don't trust any cattle. We tried using a prod on our bull once when moving him through a chute and he just turned and looked at us like...is that all you've got? He went into the trailer when he was darn good and ready. I would not want to give this big boy a chance to run at me.
I'll miss him, he's dominant but laid back with the herd. I have no idea how I will pick my next one.
As for the high pitched scream....yes it can work. Loud and as high as possible. May not keep him from getting you, but does buy you a few nanoseconds to react. One of my kids letting out a good squeal will stop everything in the barn, including mounting and you could hear a pin drop.
I've been doing a lot of reading about cattle behaviour and it has helped my confidence. Get to know the signs before snorting and blowing snot. If any animal looks threatening I face it, and take a step towards it. Turning and running will get you killed. It is amazing how a headstrong steer changes his mind when he realises you aren't afraid of him. I am boss cow...period. (Repeat in your head as necessary) be nice that would make a great webname...COWBOSS! (I'm also exceptionally good at climbing fences fast...just incase! And it doesn't hurt to actually practice this if you are nervous cuz it will build your confidence.) Better a face full of poop than a butt full of bull LOL!