Articles

Last Minute Winter Suckler Checks

As winter is progressing it is still important to carry out checks for suckler cows.

Warning For Hill Ewes In Poor Body Condition

Recent reports of ewes (particularly hard hill ewes) in poor body condition after the conditions of 2018 are a concern.

Changes To TB Control Measures & Compensation

Changes to disease control measures and compensation for Bovine TB have taken affect from 12th December 2018.

Ergot Poisoning Identified

There is a report from a North-East Scotland suckler cow herd of ergot poisoning, with some cattle having to be put down. Although usually associated with contaminated grain, the source of ergot in this case was from late cut baled grass silage.

Bull Buyers Checklist

For those who are intending purchasing bulls at this year’s spring bull sales the following should give you helpful pointers to help with the decision making process. Careful considerations should be made to make sure that you buy the bull that is right for you and your herd.

Housing Ewes

With early lambing ewes approaching lambing and field conditions getting muddy, some are looking to start housing post Christmas.

Check Brassica Grazing Stock

Remember to check the performance of sheep grazing brassicas, this can be done through regular weighing, assessing fat or condition scoring.

Post Mating Tup Management

When the tups are removed from the ewes, they may have lost condition, with an estimated 15% loss of body weight during the tupping season, this is especially true in newly purchased heavily fed tups. This condition should be managed to ensure survivability through the winter.

Clipping The Backs Of Cattle

Clipping the backs of cattle at the point of housing is for most now a common practice to reduce sweating and the risk of pneumonia. Trying to keep cattle cool…