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Dr Campbell says: “Without the tannins most of the protein would be degraded in the rumen and, in the case of a high yielding cow, she would require supplementary protein to maintain higher milk yields.”

Dr Campbell advises farmers not to fully replace soya or other protein sources with forage peas, but says they can reduce the amount of supplementary protein required.

She says: “I would always say that forage peas are best fed as a silage, alongside a grass or maize silage or a wholecrop cereal. I would not put it in on its own and it should be used as part of a ration.”

In terms of production, studies have found forage peas to maintain dry matter intake and milk yields.

By-pass proteins

However, Dr Campbell advises farmers to be aware that by-pass proteins may still be required.

She says: “It is about yield. The high yielding cows will need a source of by-pass protein as well as the peas, whereas a lower yielding cow does not have as high a requirement of by-pass protein.”

She adds: “Always talk with your nutritionist to determine the correct inclusion rates and how to alter concentrations to get the optimum milk yield and performance out of cows.

“Do not just go and do it yourself, speak to your nutritionist and get advice before you do it.” and pigeons in particular. He says that if the seeds are not sown deep enough, the rooks access the seed very easily and, once established, pigeons can become an issue.

Reference: 1. APHA 2012-2019 Neonatal, Prewean, Postwean calf groups. https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/veterinary-investigation-diagnosisanalysis-vida-report-2012

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