FIRST WINTER
TARGETS: target average daily live weight gain of 0.5 - 0.7kg/heifer/day over the first winter period.
ANIMAL NUTRITION ● GAIN Wean ‘N’ Build should be offered alongside grass silage. Feeding rates will be dependent on silage quality.
First Winter Target Growth 0.5 - 0.7kg
● Typically, silage and 1.5 - 2kg concentrate/day will result in weight gain of 0.5 - 0.7kg/day
Poor 60% DMD
Average 65% DMD
High 70% DMD
Very High 75% DMD
Silage +3.2kg
Silage +2.5kg
Silage +1.4kg
Silage +0.7kg
ANIMAL HUSBANDRY Prior to the first winter period, heifers must be weighed to ensure targets are being met, in order to achieve the desired weight at breeding. Daily live weight gains can be recorded using a electronic weigh scales or using a weight tape.
How to use a weight tape
Make sure the animal is adequately restrained and that your safety is not at risk.
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Drop the tape down the far side of the animal and pull around the chest, making sure the tape is just behind the elbow of the calf.
GAIN – HEIFER REARING PROGRAMME
Bring the end of the tape up to the side of the animal and align with the measurement markings to obtain a reading.
