Do you have the genetics in your cow herd to get the greatest benefit from the extra feed for the calves?.What is the pasture quality (digestibility) and quantity (kg green DM/ha) available now and over the next 10–12 weeks?.What is the estimated difference in value between 'fed' calves and 'not fed' calves?.What are the exact specifications for the alternative higher-value market you are targeting?.Carefully assess your present situation: what are your current sale weights, fatness levels, market options and likely prices?.To ensure profitability, careful planning and risk assessment is essential before feeding commences.Ĭonsider the following in the planning process: ProfitabilityĪdditional costs are incurred in creep feeding, so the value improvement in the calves needs to be greater than the additional cost before a net profit is achieved. This feed supplement allows calves to reach target market specifications and Meat Standard Australia (MSA) grading at a young age, even in adverse seasonal conditions. Calves gain access to the feed supplement through a 'creep', which is a fence opening or a gate opening large enough for calves to pass through but too small for the cows. This Agfact is an introduction to the purpose and methods of creep feeding beef calves.Ĭreep feeding is a simple management practice allowing calves unrestricted access to additional feed while they are still suckling the cow.
0 kommentar(er)
