Forward creep-grazing:

In the run-up to weaning autumn calves, and where strong early spring-born calves are at grass with cows, forward creep-grazing of calves should be a priority, especially for autumn-born calves. This will ensure that they have unlimited access to high-quality fresh grass, helping to keep daily liveweight gains high. This can be easily carried out by raising the electric fence and allowing calves to creep out under it. Concentrates will be required to train the calves to creep forward. Once they are doing so, meal supplementation can cease unless calves are coming near weaning.

Feeding autumn weanlings prior to sale:

In most cases, early autumn-born weanlings will be approaching weaning. On heavy land, many farmers will be considering leaving autumn-born weanlings and cows indoors, or restrictions on grass to reduce ground damage and demand. This may be particularly advantageous where grass supply remains tight. As milk yield is now dropping, there should be a clear focus on maintaining high levels of liveweight gain prior to sale.To reduce stress on the calf, creep-feeding should be considered. Meal should be fed for a minimum of four weeks prior to and after weaning to reduce stress and maintain growth rates when milk is removed from the diet. Feeding 1kg-2kg of concentrates should suffice where there is access to good-quality grass. Where grass quality is deteriorating or supply is very tight on heavily stocked farms, extending the meal feeding period may be required.

Supplementing forward stores:

The cold, wet spring has had an impact on animal performance, particularly on heavy farms. When cattle are coming close to slaughter, supplementation should be considered for a period of at least four to six weeks prior to slaughter to help improve fat score and conformation. Feeding 2kg of ration per day will suffice in most cases, particularly for traditional breeds. Consider increasing the rate to 4kg/day if grass quality or supply is tight. Feeding 2kg/day for six weeks will cost about €32/head with concentrates at €260/t. Because grass is high in protein, a simple high-energy feed, eg rolled barley, is the cheapest option for supplementing.

Breeding progression:

The poor weather conditions are making breeding difficult in some areas, particularly where AI is being used. Farmers are commenting on lower submission rates and lower expressions of heats. The target should be to have 60% submitted for breeding in the first three weeks and 90% in six weeks. To hit the target of 80% calved in the first eight weeks, conception rates of 60%-70% are required. Take time to watch for repeats to ensure the stock bull is working. Where AI is taking place, low heat detection rates can hamper efforts to keep calving tight. Use a teaser bull or heat detection aids to help avoid missed and silent heats.