Missed heifer growth targets could impair long-term herd productivity
20th October 2022
Farmers are being reminded of the importance of achieving heifer growth targets in order to maintain herd productivity – following reports of lower-than-average growth rates due to heat stress and lack of adequate grazing this summer.
Achieving optimum daily liveweight gain is critical to hitting the 24-month calving target and ensuring heifers are the correct size at first calving. Research has shown that missing these targets will have a lasting impact on the animal’s performance throughout its lifetime.
Mole Valley Farmers’ senior nutritionist Dr Robin Hawkey said many farmers are concerned their heifers were smaller than expected following this year’s weather challenges, which can lead to costly long-term issues.
“A few farmers have already discussed disappointing heifer growth rates, with one even having increased feeding in the summer, but did not still obtain expected targets,” he noted.
Guidelines state that heifers must weigh at least 60% of their adult bodyweight or between 380-400kg at first service (15 months) and must be 90% of their mature weight at calving. This means heifers must gain 0.8-1kg a day on average.
To avoid long-term productivity loss, Dr Hawkey urged farmers to assess their heifers at housing and correct any weight issues.
“If heifers don’t hit bulling weight or age at first calving targets, there will be long-term implications for their herd. Lifetime yields will be reduced and will also have a negative impact on the carbon footprint, which is becoming increasingly relevant.”
He also warned that housing and low silage quality could further exacerbate the situation: “If the silage quality is struggling and farmers prioritise cows over the heifers, it will set them back. These are the future of the herd,” he stressed.
Dr Hawkey suggested supplementary feeding over the winter months can help underweight heifers make up gains. Farmers may choose to feed forage extender blends or straw-based rations in addition to regular forage to promote growth.
“Straw-based rations need to be carefully balanced in terms of protein, specifically rumen degradable protein, often supplied by compounds and blends including rapeseed and feed grade urea.
“Molassed-based products such as Regumaize and Nutrimaize also contain urea but have the additional benefit of sugar, which helps support energy supply. Adequate mineral and vitamin provision need to be considered, particularly biotin for heifers,” he added.
Lifetime Heifer 24 offered by Mole Valley Feed Solutions makes for a suitable feed supplement to provide next to insufficient or low-quality forage, Mole Valley says. It contains 24% protein to balance rations and promote heifer frame growth, as well as minerals and vitamins for optimal health.
Additionally, research from Nottingham University has suggested that the high levels of bypass protein in the feed help heifers achieve their full genetic potential.
