News

Optimise ewe’s ration to support performance

30th January 2023

During the last 6 weeks of pregnancy, 75% of foetal growth occurs which results in an increase in the ewes requirements for energy and protein. The biggest challenge in meeting this energy increase is lamb growth reducing space inside the ewe. This causes the ewe’s dry matter intake (DMI) to drop up to 30% resulting in a DMI as low as 1.4 kg (depending on ewe size), highlighting the importance of quality feed during this critical time.

Focus on fields to maximise grass growth after a drought period

22nd December 2022

It is well known that well-managed grassland produces the cheapest feed throughout the year, whether it is cut to make silage or grazed by livestock. However no two years are ever the same and with weather patterns constantly changing seasons are becoming more extreme, with drier summers and milder sometimes wetter winters. This year has been no exception with a cold late spring, followed by a dry summer, with drought conditions in many areas of the country. Coupled with high fertiliser prices, increased fuel costs and uncertainty created by events in Eastern Europe have created challenges never seen before in global farming let alone UK farming.

What is your cold stress strategy for your calves?

9th December 2022

Maximising calf performance within those first 8 weeks of life is key to promoting the lifetime performance of the animal. Therefore, in cold weather (less than 15 degrees C), where there is an increased challenge to keep warm and where it is sensible to have a strategy in place to mitigate the impact the environment may have. Here are some pointers: