WebFeb 23, 2024 · Heifers should be approximately 65% of mature weight at breeding and 85% of mature weight post-calving so management adjustments may be required if a producer wants to reduce a 25-month to a 23-month age at first calving. For example, if the average mature cow in a herd weighs 1400 lb, a calf that weighs 190 lbs at weaning (2 … WebThe commonplace delay in breeding heifers until >16 months of age was in part due to under prediction of heifer live weight. Monitoring heifer weight for age is the key to success. Use of a weighbridge or the AFBI weigh band provides confidence to serve heifers early at the optimum age and weight to ensure calving at 24 months of age at 540-580 kg.
Hoof health starts with the heifer – Dairy
WebAn example calculation for a 13-month-old heifer (breeding age): Heifer weight 5 400 kg; dam weight beginning of second lactation 5 670 kg 400-kg heifer/(670-kg dam 1.087) 5 400-kg heifer/728-kg dam MBWs 5 54.9% of MBW Overall, heifer growers should focus on growing heifers with an adequate rate of gain without excessive body condition. WebJun 9, 2024 · The Dairy Calf and Heifer Association recommends heifers calve in at approximately 85% of mature weight. For a Holstein herd whose average mature cow weighs approximately 1,500 pounds, this is a target of 1,275 pounds. ... Your desired age at first calving will dictate breeding age. phil nickels
Dairy Heifer Development and Nutrition Management
WebJan 27, 2024 · According to a recent study, the average cost across Wisconsin to raise a dairy replacement heifer was $2,104, with 54% of the cost in feed, 16% in labor and management, 18% variable costs and 12% fixed costs. ... Breeding management. Breeding-age heifers should weigh about 825-900 pounds, or 55% of the herd’s mature … WebJan 31, 2024 · Heifer-rearing costs are some of the highest costs to the dairy farm. Recent Penn State research estimates that raising a heifer to calving costs $1,700. Other research has shown estimates well over $2,000. We consistently see benchmarks for age at first calving to be anywhere from 21 to 25 months. WebFor sample diets for large-breed dairy heifers 3–15 months of age, See table: Example Dietary Characteristics for Growing Replacement Heifers Example Dietary … phil nickells