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Winter grazing management influences the quality and quantity of grass in the spring.

More and more research illustrates the effect of condition score on the rearing success of the ewe flock. For example, Teagasc, the Irish Research and Advisory Agency, have recorded a 10% increase in rearing rate for ewes that are one condition score greater at mating time (within the range of 2.5-4). This makes a compelling argument to focus on ewe condition between weaning and mating time to improve returns next year.

There are some markets for light lambs, down to 36 kg liveweight.

During the drought some fields have been grazed and others shut off in the hope of a possible second cut etc.  Where grass has been grazed, either by set stocking or rotational grazing, the lack of moisture has forced it to continually draw on it’s root reserves and deplete them.

Grass is a great asset for feeding and when managed well can produce high liveweight gains from cattle. However, as we move through summer it is important to remember that grass will start to become more fibrous.

In summer, calves will be consuming milk and grass so on average a creep feed with 14-16% crude protein (as fed) and 12.5MJ metabolisable energy/kg DM should be adequate. As creep feed is usually made available from a feeder with a hopper it is effectively available ad lib so care is required to prevent rumen acidosis

Timing will depend on calf age, growth potential of calves and grass availability. Normally creep feeding would start 6-10 weeks prior to weaning but bulls to be finished on ad-lib cereal diets should start being creep fed earlier, around 12 weeks before weaning.

When a calf is 4 months of age half of its nutritional requirements should be met by forage and concentrates rather than milk. Supplying creep feed before weaning can help smooth the transition from pre- to post-weaning and the extra source of nutrients can compensate for the reduction in milk yield as lactation progresses.

It is best to check sward heights on a regular basis to ensure there is adequate feed for them.