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Describe four visible features a dairy farmer would look for when selecting a replacement heifer for a dairy herd - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 6 - 2014
Question 6
Describe four visible features a dairy farmer would look for when selecting a replacement heifer for a dairy herd. Describe the target weights, nutrition and housin... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe four visible features a dairy farmer would look for when selecting a replacement heifer for a dairy herd - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 6 - 2014
Step 1
Describe four visible features a dairy farmer would look for when selecting a replacement heifer for a dairy herd.
Answer
When selecting a replacement heifer for a dairy herd, a dairy farmer should observe the following four visible features:
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Good Feet: The heifer should have strong, healthy hooves that provide proper support and mobility, minimizing the risk of lameness.
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Healthy Udder: An ideal replacement heifer should have a well-formed, healthy udder with the appropriate number of teats, as this impacts future milk production.
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Good Conformation: The heifer should have a balanced body structure indicating good growth potential and overall productivity, which includes a strong rear end for better support.
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Alertness and Condition: The heifer should appear alert and healthy, showing signs of good condition such as a shiny coat and an appropriate body condition score (BCS of around 3.25).
Step 2
Describe the target weights, nutrition and housing of a replacement heifer in a spring-calving dairy herd at each of the following stages:
Answer
(i) Newborn Calf Stage
- Target Weight: 35-45 kg
- Nutrition: The newborn heifer should receive colostrum (first milk) to boost immunity, along with whole milk or a milk replacer and possibly concentrates or hay to support early growth.
- Housing: Newborns should be kept in pens with straw bedding to ensure warmth and comfort.
(ii) Weaning Stage
- Target Weight: 55-280 kg (typically at 6 weeks to 12 months)
- Nutrition: At this stage, the heifer should be fed hay, silage, or grass, along with concentrates to support healthy growth as she transitions from milk.
- Housing: They can be put out on grass once the weather permits (typically on or after November 1).
(iii) Yearling Stage
- Target Weight: 280-300 kg
- Nutrition: The yearling should have access to silage, ad lib meals, and may begin to have access to early grazing to promote healthy development.
- Housing: Housing during this stage can be slats or straw beds, ensuring comfort and cleanliness.
(iv) Mating Stage
- Target Weight: 290-340 kg
- Nutrition: At this stage, the heifer should primarily graze to meet her nutritional needs.
- Housing: Mating heifers should be out on grass to maintain activity and productivity.