Dangerous Dan
Member
We have recently started calf rearing on a small scale. Talking about 35 in at highest count. Idea was to get them in around 2 week old, get them to weaning, give them a week or two to adjust and then send them to auction. First batch went well, last two batches not so well. I know there are many many possible factors in calf price but we were wondering how straw affects calf diet.
The reason I'm asking...... First batch was 3.AAx.hfrs + 3 Hereford x hfrs. When weaned, they ate pellets like stink. Literally as soon as they went in the feeder, calves were all over it, usually clearing the lot before moving away.
This last batch which was 2.seperate pens worth included AAx bull, B/W bull, BRBx bull and 6 AAx. Hfrs. All putting straw away but not really pounding on the pellets. Bulls were a good size but not full bellied if that makes sense.
I was always under the impression that it was good for calves to always have straw and cake under their noses...... Are we doing wrong by this? Should we not be putting as much straw down meaning they will eat more cake come weaning? What are your thoughts please.......
T. I. A
The reason I'm asking...... First batch was 3.AAx.hfrs + 3 Hereford x hfrs. When weaned, they ate pellets like stink. Literally as soon as they went in the feeder, calves were all over it, usually clearing the lot before moving away.
This last batch which was 2.seperate pens worth included AAx bull, B/W bull, BRBx bull and 6 AAx. Hfrs. All putting straw away but not really pounding on the pellets. Bulls were a good size but not full bellied if that makes sense.
I was always under the impression that it was good for calves to always have straw and cake under their noses...... Are we doing wrong by this? Should we not be putting as much straw down meaning they will eat more cake come weaning? What are your thoughts please.......
T. I. A