Suckler condition

18 April 1997

Suckler condition

SUCKLER cow condition should be monitored closely as bulling nears to ensure high conception rates.

ADASs Elwyn Rees says sucklers due to be put to the bull in May for February calving should be in rising condition. He says that is more important than absolute condition, but advises aiming for a score of 2.5 in cows at mating.

"Stocking rates of about 2500kg/ha liveweight on well grown grass should provide sufficient nutrients to ensure cows reach target condition scores," says Dr Rees.

Bulls should be in rising condition, target score about 4, which may mean feeding concentrates at about 2kg a day. He also advises trimming the bulls feet. &#42