The conditions we have experienced in the last few weeks have been just what the doctor ordered to assist in getting back on track after a very difficult period. Grass growth in mid to late July was at rates we would normally expect in late August (this is in line with soil temperatures too!!). Stock […]
Archive | Deer
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Difficult Times
The Last 3 weeks have obviously been very hot and dry. The result has been seriously diminishing pasture covers and summer crops disappearing rapidly!! Given it is only the start of February it will take some serious rain to dramatically improve the situation. Every cloud has some silver lining and the dry period has resulted […]
NAIT Tag System??
It appears people are just starting to wake up to what is actually involved with meeting the demands of this programme. I trust all those calves picked up from dairy farms have been downloaded off the dairy herds and onto your records, and that you have confirmed your purchase of cattle since the scheme started!! […]
Brains Wanted
New Zealand needs to examine the brains of cattle, sheep and deer with certain clinical symptoms to prove it is scrapie and BSE free. Suitable candidates are: Cows -neurological abnormalities -non responsive metabolic conditions -downer cows with no obvious injuries Sheep -neurological disorders Deer -pneumonia -ill thrift and weight […]
A Very Slow Winter!!
From my observations, growth rates in June are well below average, in fact the lowest I have ever seen. Fortunately things have improved significantly through July with some periods of warm rain and far less frosts. On many farms feed covers especially for sheep, are marginal, although a fresh tinge of green is appearing. It is […]
Take Care with Slug Bait
Slug baits are very widely used in pasture renovation and cropping programmes. These baits are toxic to all mammals including dogs, sheep, cattle and horses and we have warned about the threat of poisoning in previous newsletters. An incidence of poisoning in Hawkes Bay is worth bringing to your attention as it demonstrates how ugly […]