Livestock News

Following feedback from 46 producers, the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF) has urged the government to address the escalating labour situation in the sector in its latest submission of evidence to the Migration Advisory Council (MAC).

Livestock farmers are being warned about the increased risk of grass staggers in cattle and sheep as a result of this year’s wet spring, with Rumenco nutritionist Dr Alison Bond advising supplementation to balance a lower-than-average magnesium intake from grass.

Beef and dairy farmers are being reminded of the signs of summer mastitis in dry cows and heifers, and strategies to prevent it this summer.

The Kept Animals Bill, which was expected to ban live animal exports and tackle livestock worrying and pet thefts, has been abandoned.

Farming groups including National Sheep Association are stepping up efforts to inform livestock farmers of the need to obtain a signed declaration to allow the future sale of animals destined for export.

Having confirmed payments for last year’s wool clip, British Wool acknowledged the prices will be disappointing to members and said the organisation is doing everything it can to navigate what is currently a ‘very challenging environment’ for raw material suppliers.

Farmers are being encouraged to prioritise fly control now and protect their livestock, as warm and wet weather is set to accelerate maggot and fly emergence.

Many food and farming businesses say they are entirely dependent on their local abattoir, with animal welfare, food miles and the local economy all coming under threat if closures continue at the same pace.

The virus was detected as part of a routine testing programme for asymptomatic people who have been in contact with infected birds.

Latest throughput figures released this week by the Livestock Auctioneers’ Association (LAA) show that more farmers across England and Wales are favouring the live sales ring to secure the true value of their livestock, with margins under greater pressure from increased production costs.

High tech portable chambers for measuring methane emissions from sheep are being used on a UK farm for the first time.

Livestock entries to the Royal Bath & West Show have been fantastic across the board this year, demonstrating farmers’ appetite for exhibiting their top animals and socialising with their peers.