Focus on Calves 2017 by WynnstayGroup

WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

FOCUS ON CALVES

FOCUS ON CALVES 2017

4TH EDITION

TECHNICAL ADVICE FOR GOLD STANDARD CALF REARING

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

p.3

PREVENTING CALF SCOURS

p.4

STELLAR SUCCESS AT HUNTWORTH FARM

p.6

EFFECT OF MILK REPLACER AND AGE ON GLUCOSE AND INSULIN KINETICS

p.8

COLOSTRUM QUALITY AND QUANTITY IS A GOOD INDICATOR OF SUCCESSFUL TRANSITION

p.10

OLD HALL CALVES

p.12

REARING BEEF CALVES - THE NATURE OF THE BEAST

p.14

MEETING THE NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF GROWING HEIFERS

p.16

SPRING CALVING 2017

p.19

MANAGE COLOSTRUM AND SAVE ON VETS BILLS

p.20

WYNNSTAY ADVANCE TM FEEDS

p.21

EQUIPMENT

p.22

EQUIPMENT AND MILKS

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Our Calf Team

Steve Brown - Ruminant Feeds Product Manager m: 07774 855026 e: steve.brown@wynnstay.co.uk

@sirbilly55

Rebecca Davies - Senior Calf Specialist - South Wales m: 07881 093633 e: rebecca.davies@wynnstay.co.uk @richardscalf1 Sandy Wilson - Calf Specialist - West & North Wales m: 07879 841672 e: sandy.wilson@wynnstay.co.uk @petticoatcalves Jess Charlton - Calf Specialist - Shropshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire m: 07990 584740 e: jess.charlton@wynnstay.co.uk @charltoncalf1 Eimear Diamond - Calf Specialist - South & South West England m: 07881 379008 e: eimear.diamond@wynnstay.co.uk @diamondcalf1 Millie Hendy - Calf Specialist - Somerset, Gloucestershire, Midlands m: 07717 495746 e: millie.hendy@wynnstay.co.uk @hendycalf1

Our Dairy Team Dr Huw McConochie - Head of Dairy Technical Services m: 07771 740857 e: huw.mcconochie@wynnstay.co.uk @HuwMcConochie Iwan Vaughan - Dairy Specialist - North & Mid Wales m: 07990 578548 e: iwan.vaughan@wynnstay.co.uk

@maesmochnant

Thomas Stephenson - Dairy Specialist - North England m: 07469 851607 e: thomas.stephenson@wynnstay.co.uk Mark Price - Dairy Specialist - Midlands m: 07876 824314 e: mark.price@wynnstay.co.uk

@m_priceo

Martin Hope - Dairy Specialist - South West m: 07502 311181 e: martin.hope@wynnstay.co.uk Ken March - Dairy Specialist - South Wales & West Wales m: 07454 015610 e: ken.march@wynnstay.co.uk Nadine Pilkington - Dairy Project Manager t: 01691 827145 e: nadine.pilkington@wynnstay.co.uK If you are interested in receiving our Focus on Calves publication by email, or for technical advice, product information and to request a quote, visit

www.wynnstayagriculture.co.uk To read our latest blogs, visit

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FOCUS ON CALVES 2017

PREVENTING CALF SCOURS Neo-natal calf scours, caused by parasites, viruses or bacteria is one of the most common diseases seen in young calves, attributing to approximately 50% of all calf deaths¹. An outbreak of scours can cost as much as £44 per calf, excluding labour². This can prove costly to the business in terms of death and loss of growth rates resulting in delayed first service. Every farm will be exposed to the pathogens of calf scours; management practices, hygiene, and the immune status of the calf, all play a vital role in preventing disease. A calf is born without any maternal derived antibodies, it has no functional immune system until it has received colostrum and is, therefore, more susceptible to disease. To overcome this and produce a productive, profitable animal, it is paramount that each calf born receives 10% of its birthweight in good quality colostrum within six hours of birth (e.g. 40kg calf needs 4L). The calf absorbs antibodies directly into its bloodstream via the gut wall and once ‘foreign bodies’ enter the blood stream, the calf’s own immune system triggers a response and helps fight off disease. To gain an accurate measurement of colostrum quality the use of a refractometer is recommended. A calf house should be well ventilated and be sufficiently bedded to help not only prevent scours arising but to prevent respiratory disease.

Vaccination protocols The use of Rotavec Corona vaccine will play a vital role in immunisation of pregnant cows and heifers to raise antibodies against E. coli adhesion F5 (K99) antigen, rotavirus and coronavirus. A single 2ml injection of Rotavec Corona, administered via intramuscular route, should be given during each pregnancy between 3-12 weeks before calving is expected. Rotavec Corona has zero day’s milk withhold. While calves are fed colostrum from vaccinated cows during the first two to four weeks of life, these antibodies have been demonstrated to:

Identifying pathogens and viruses It is not possible to determine which pathogen or virus is responsible for causing the scour just by looking at the diarrhoea. Your vet should be contacted and faecal samples should be taken to determine the cause of the scour, once a diagnosis has been made your vet will be able to suggest a suitable form of treatment.

• Reduce the severity of diarrhoea caused by E. coli F5 (K99) • Reduce the incidence of scours caused by rotavirus

Cryptosporidium, coronavirus, coccidiosis and rotavirus are more commonly seen on UK farms along with pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella. Nutritional scours also presents problems on some farms that use poor quality milk replacer, or adopt inconsistent feeding patterns. Feeding a quality milk replacer with digestible ingredients, high vitamin E content and low fibre, as well as adopting good management practices, and feeding a good quality starter feed such as Start ‘n’ Wean with nutritionally improved straw (NIS), alongside chopped straw and fresh water will help prevent nutritional problems.

• Reduce the shedding of virus by calves infected with rotavirus or coronavirus. Onset of immunity: passive protection against all active substances will commence from the start of colostrum feeding

It is a common misconception that withdrawing the milk and replacing with an electrolyte will aid recovery quicker but, in actual fact, this is a dated approach and will delay the recovery period. Introducing electrolytes, either by adding to the milk or feeding in-between feeds, will speed recovery as the calf will be rehydrated from the electrolyte, allowing it to excrete any toxins and also receive a feed value from the milk.

For further advice and information please speak to your regional Wynnstay Calf Specialist, in-store SQP or your Animal Health Representative. To find your local store, visit www.wynnstayagriculture.co.uk Please note: Rotavec Corona is a temperature sensitive vaccine and should be stored between 2°C and 8°C, once the seal is broached the entire contents should be used within 8 hours. ¹NADIS ²MSD Animal Health

Protection of calves depends on the physical presence of colostrum antibodies from vaccinated cows. Thus it is essential to ensure adequate colostrum from their dams is fed within the first six hours of birth, and fed transition milk for a further eight feeds.

Sandy Wilson Calf Specialist - West & North Wales m: 07879 841672 e: sandy.wilson@wynnstay.co.uk @petticoatcalves

PREVENTING CALF SCOURS

With a total cost of just over £9 per cow to vaccinate against rotavirus, E. coli and corona virus, and an outbreak of scours costing at least £44 per calf, surely prevention is better than cure?

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STELLAR SUCCESS AT HUNTWORTH FARM Gary and Benedicte Bagg farm over 250 acres at Huntworth Farm near Taunton, along with their children Charlotte and Louie. The family run 130 head of cattle; half of which are beef, with the remainder being dairy replacements. The children have taken a key interest in showing the cattle; both competing at local shows in the beef ring with their pedigree Blonde and Charolais heifers, and in the dairy ring with the heifer replacements born on the farm. Calf rearing plays a key part at Huntworth Farm. Gary chooses high genetics to produce the best quality stock, and ensures that calves are fed correctly to unleash the genetic potential of the animal, allowing them to gain the top spots at shows and hit the top prices in market.

23%

PROTEIN

Approximately 30 Holstein heifers are calved per year, these calves are then reared and sold through the local market as freshly calved heifers. The current heifer calving age is 28 months old, Gary feels that ‘the buyers are looking for heifers with strength and size in the market.’ Up until now, the rearing system adopted on farm meant that heifers were not pushed in the first few months of life and were not big enough to enable them to calve at 24 months.

500mg/kg VITAMIN E

WynngoldTM Stellar Instant is a top quality, whey based milk powder formulated to achieve ‘gold standard’ growth rates, suitable for high performance dairy replacements and beef calves

Milk replacer The bull and heifer calves are now fed WynngoldTM Stellar, a 23% Protein, 20% Oil milk replacer with extremely high levels of vitamin E (500mg/kg) to encourage a strong immune system. Calves are tubed 2.5L of high-quality tested colostrum in the first three hours of life and then again three hours later. Gary finds that tubing the calves with colostrum is ‘quick and easy ensuring calves get the vital colostrum they need.’ The calves are then fed transition milk and moved on to the powder at day four where they receive 900g of powder a day in two 3L feeds. Gary remarked that he has ‘seen improvements in the calves since changing to WynngoldTM Stellar milk powder. The calves appear to be doing well on it, as you can tell by the size of the calves and the shine on their coats. The powder smells good and mixes very well.’

HUNTWORTH FARM

Currently weaning age is 10 weeks, the calves have free access to water, calf starter and chopped hay. Generally straw is the preferred forage for young ruminants, however the hay fed is chopped to promote good rumen development. Gary prefers ‘a gradual weaning, gently cutting them back to once a day as I don’t get a post weaning check, also I know they are eating adequate calf starter, therefore, the rumen is fully functioning.’ The family are constantly looking for ways to get higher growth rates, enabling them to produce larger heifers that can be served earlier, bringing the age at first calving down.

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FOCUS ON CALVES 2017

Calf jackets Calf coats are used for the first four weeks of life. These are a ‘no brainer’ for Gary, by keeping the calf warm the calf does not waste energy trying to stay warm, so sparing energy to keep the animal growing. The thermo-neutral zone for a calf is 1225°C up to four weeks of age. This means a calf needs 2% more energy for every one degree below its thermo-neutral zone, if the temperature was to drop to zero degrees in the colder months, the calf would need 20% more energy just to maintain its core body temperature.

Wynngold CalfMetrics™ is a reporting service relating to calves from birth to first calving. It records animal weights then monitors and reports the performance of herd replacements. Wynnstay Calf Specialists regularly take weights and heights of a group of calves (which can be different ones at each visit). The weights and heights are then plotted against the target height and weight of the calves, which is farm specific. The service gathers not just the age, weight, and height of hundreds of calves, but also records; the feeding regime, feeding rate, type of powder, and other management practices, so that the database created can help all the participants to see which systems produce the best strategy. Ultimately, Wynngold CalfMetrics™ is a monitoring resource available to Wynnstay customers which produces sound, physical data, on which the rearer can make sound management decisions. Farm: Example

Date: 16th May 2017 Customized Heifer Growth Chart Based on Mature BW and Goal for Age at Calving

700.00

Example Body Weight

600.00

Body weight, kg

500.00 400.00 300.00 200.00 100.00 0.00 02468

Age, months Customized Heifer Growth Chart Based on Mature Height and Goal for Age at Calving

160

Height, cm

140

Calf coats are used for the first four weeks of life. These are a ‘no brainer’ for Gary...

120 100 80 60 40 20 02468

For more information on the complete WynngoldTM Calf Rearing package from Wynnstay please contact your regional Wynnstay Calf Specialist. Millie Hendy Calf Specialist - Somerset, Gloucestershire & Midlands m: 07717 495746 e: millie.hendy@wynnstay.co.uk @hendycalf1

Gary has started recording heifer heights and weights to monitor the performance of the calves, utilising Wynngold CalfMetricsTM, a free reporting service available to Wynnstay customers.

HUNTWORTH FARM

Age, months

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EFFECT OF MILK REPLACER AND AGE ON GLUCOSE AND INSULIN KINETICS Trouw Nutrition R&D has completed a study to further investigate the relationship between milk replacer intake and insulin and glucose kinetics

Current research has focused on feeding calves an elevated plane of nutrition during the pre-weaning period. Research has shown multiple benefits to this choice of calf management programme, including increased average daily gains, early onset of puberty, improved longevity and potential for higher milk production in the future.

â&#x20AC;˘ Whether larger meal sizes fed twice daily would result in delayed abomasal emptying and what effect this would have on blood glucose levels Elevated levels of milk replacer and insulin sensitivity Insulin is an important hormone for controlling glucose levels within the calf; especially important for growth. In response to increased glucose levels in the blood, for example after a meal, insulin is secreted from the pancreas, this is a key bodily function to utilise glucose for energy by the liver, and to build body fat and muscle.

However, there are also some common concerns when feeding larger volumes of milk to young calves when it is split over a small number of feeds. It is thought feeding elevated planes of nutrition may also impact upon digestion and metabolism, and may have effects that persist post-weaning. These effects may include impaired insulin sensitivity.

Insulin maintains glucose levels within the normal physiologic range to prevent blood sugar levels from getting too high or too low, but in order to do this the body has to remain sensitive to the actions of insulin and not become resistant, which may happen with prolonged periods of increased blood glucose levels.

Trouw Nutrition R&D has completed a study to further investigate the relationship between milk replacer intake and insulin and glucose kinetics.

MILK REPLACER

Study overview

Decreased insulin sensitivity in calves could lead to reduced efficiency of protein and energy utilisation and may predispose calves to metabolic disease later in life.

Calves fed an elevated plane of nutrition pre-weaning had increased average daily liveweight gain compared to calves fed on a conventional plane of nutrition (8L milk replacer vs. 4L milk replacer).

In this study the calves on the higher plane of nutrition (8L of milk replacer vs. 4L of milk replacer) had greater basal glucose levels and higher glucose and insulin concentrations after eating. This was to be expected as these calves were receiving a twofold greater concentration of lactose in their diet.

The two objectives of this study were to determine: â&#x20AC;˘ Whether calves fed an elevated plane of milk replacer would have decreased insulin sensitivity pre-weaning and whether this would have an effect post-weaning

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Importantly though, blood glucose and insulin concentrations in these calves fed a high level of milk replacer returned to baseline within six hours, demonstrating that insulin sensitivity is not impaired by plane of nutrition, and calves fed large meals can regulate glucose metabolism. At four, seven, and 10 weeks of age there were no differences between the two groups of calves and their glucose metabolism. Furthermore, there were no differences in glucose metabolism before or after weaning noted in either group of calves. Therefore, we can conclude that calves fed an elevated plane of milk replacer did not have decreased insulin sensitivity pre or post-weaning and, as such, had increased growth rates compared to calves fed on a conventional plane of nutrition. The effect of larger meal sizes on abomasal emptying Pre-weaning calves do not yet have a functional rumen, therefore, milk passes directly into the abomasum due to closure of the oesophageal groove. Abomasal (gastric) emptying is important for controlling the glucose level in the bloodstream; if the abomasum empties quickly following a large meal then there could be a large influx of glucose into the bloodstream. This may require higher levels of insulin secretion in order for the glucose to be utilised effectively and could result in prolonged periods of high insulin and glucose, affecting sensitivity to insulin. In this study, calves fed elevated levels of milk replacer had a slower abomasal emptying rate than the calves fed lower amounts of milk replacer. This is thought to be an adaptive mechanism of the calf to increased levels of milk replacer, thus regulating and stabilising blood metabolite levels. Conclusions

Summary

Feeding calves on an elevated plane of nutrition (8L milk replacer vs. 4L of milk replacer in two meals per day) has significant pre-weaning advantages. The increased pre-weaning growth has been shown to increase overall lifetime performance, without the proposed adverse effects. This study has shown that feeding elevated levels of milk replacer does not affect insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, where delayed abomasal emptying acts to stabilise glucose levels in the blood following a larger meal.

• Calves fed 8L of milk replacer in two meals achieved higher pre-weaning average daily gains (ADG) compared to calves fed 4L of milk replacer; 0.77kg/d vs. 0.61kg/d, respectively • Calves fed 8L of milk replacer achieved higher body weights pre and post-weaning, compared to calves fed 4L of milk replacer; achieving weights of 92.0kg vs. 85.3kg, for 8L milk replacer vs. 4L milk replacer respectively, at the end of the experiment • Feeding 8L of milk replacer has no affect on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism • Calves fed large meals can regulate their blood glucose concentration, which always returns to baseline within six hours • Calves fed 8L of milk replacer pre-weaning have slower rates of abomasal emptying which helps to stabilise blood metabolite levels, in particular glucose

Georgina Thomas

Ruminant Technical Manager - Trouw Nutrition

MILK REPLACER

For more information please contact your regional Wynnstay Calf Specialist

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COLOSTRUM QUALITY AND QUANTITY IS A GOOD INDICATOR OF SUCCESSFUL TRANSITION Quantity and quality, the two words that describe very accurately what we want in terms of colostrum, but are we managing our transition cows correctly in order to achieve this? increase and a ketotic state develops (Figure 2) when the rate of fat mobilisation exceeds the livers capacity to metabolise fat. Ketosis is recognised as one of the most significant predisposing conditions along with hypocalcaemia to a plethora of transition diseases.

Before we even get into the transition/nutrition side of things let’s first of all look at the make-up of colostrum, as it might give us some clues as to what we need to do in order to produce it (Table 1) . Table 1 Composition of colostrum

Figure 2 DMI and plasma NEFA before and after parturition

Colostrum composition in a Pennsylvania survey

2500

Maximum

Fat%

6.7

2.0

26.5

Protein%

14.9

7.1

22.6

Lactose%

2.5

1.2

5.2

Total solids%

27.6

18.3

43.3

IgG(mg/ml)

41.0

14.5

94.8

IgA(mg/ml)

1.7

0.5

4.4

IgM(mg/ml)

4.3

1.1

21.0

Dry Matter Intake and Plasma NEFA 66

Glucose g/day

Glucose g/day Glucose g/day

1000

Demand

1500 1500 Demand

Demand Supply

1000

Supply

1000

500

-7 -9 -11

-5-7 -3 -5

-3-1 -1

55 7

Days relative to parturition Days relative to parturition

9 11

1311 15 1317

0 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 -21 -19 -17 -15 -13 -11 -9 -7 -5 -3 -1 1 3 5 -21 -19 -17 -15 -13 -11 -9 -7 -5 -3 -1 1 Days relative to parturition Days relative to parturition

COLOSTRUM

-21 -19 -17 -15 -13-17-11 -9 -21 -19 -15 -13

400 200 10

102

3. Try to avoid regrouping cows in the run up to calving

500

2. Provide at least 1m of feed space per cow, one stall or 10m² lying space

2000

1000

600

1. Cows should be moved to the close up calving pen more than 17 days or less than two days pre-calving. Group changes within 17 to two days pre-calving has been shown to have a negative effect on transition

2000

1500

No matter what transitional arrangements are put in place the drop in DMI is unavoidable. However, correct management of the transition cow can help to limit this drop especially if the rules set out by Nordlund and Cook for transition cows are adhered to:

2500

1500

800

Day relative to calving

Figure 1 Glucose supply and demand before and after 2500 parturition (Overton, 1998)

2000

1000

11 -20-

Compared to whole milk, colostrum contains very high concentrations of protein and fat. The synthesis of colostrum therefore, has a high-energy demand; glucose is the primary source of energy for metabolic processes. As parturition approaches the demand for glucose increases. This is driven by the energy demand for the synthesis of colostrum and a rapidly growing foetus (Figure 1). However, the cows falling dry matter intake (DMI) limits the supply of glucose. At a DMI of 12.5kg to 13kg of dry matter (DM) a Holstein dairy cow will easily consume enough feed to produce 1500g of glucose but not when DMI falls to around a third of the DMI achieved during the far-off period.

2000 2500

DMI NEFA

NEFA, uM

Minimum

DMI, lb/d

Average

15 19 21

17 21 13

As glucose supply comes under pressure glucogenic amino acids are diverted for the synthesis of glucose and fat is mobilised to provide energy. As energy balance enters negative territory fat is mobilised and blood nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) levels

The ‘Goldilocks Diet’: feeding cows just right; has been a firm Supply favourite with producers for many years but unfortunately there Demand is evidence to suggest that it may not be the best approach. If Supply the energy and protein density of the diet is not increased in the run-up to calving when DMI is in decline, colostrum quality and volume will suffer. Another downside of this approach is that the change in make-up of the diet is so extreme from transition to lactating diets that rumen health and early lactation performance can be affected. Quite simply a cow in the last of pregnancy requires the same energy from up to a third 19 week 21 less DM. As a rule of thumb the non-fibre carbohydrates (NFC) content of the close up diet needs to be within 5% points of the fresh cow diet. For example, if the NFC content of the fresh cow diet is 35%, then the close up diet needs to be close to 30%.

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vaccinations given too close to calving can even reduce antibody levels. Hygiene during drying off and culling of repeat high somatic cell count (SCC) offenders is essential if colostrum quality is to be optimised. A study of Norwegian herd by Gulliksen etal., (2008) found that cows that calved down with higher SCC had lower colostrum quality in terms of IgG concentration. Interestingly Fiona Maunsell and colleagues of Illinois University showed that mastitis during the dry period did not affect colostrum IgG concentration but did affect colostrum volume. Ferdowsi et al., (2010) showed that high SCC concentrations in colostrum reduced serum IgG levels in calves three hours after the first feed. Colostrum quality and quantity can become a problem if the herd has a high replacement rate and high number of first and second calvers as it is well documented that animals of this parity produce poorer quality colostrum (Table 2). This can have severe implications for the health of the herd going forward. Animals are used to breed the future herd replacements that will inevitably have to be fed poorer quality colostrum.

Unfortunately, there is very little evidence that demonstrates an effect of transition diet on colostrum quality and quantity in dairy cows. In goats however, Ramirez-Vera et al., 2015 demonstrated that supplementing diets based on low quality forage with corn in the last 12 days of gestation improved colostrum production.

Table 2 Effect of parity on colostrum IgG concentration (Gomes et al., 2011)

Table 2. Medium of immunoglobulin concentration in the colostrum of Holstein cows according to the number of deliveries

The factors that lead to a successful transition period for the cow will also lead to the production of good quality colostrum which will ensure the health of the new born calf

Number of Deliveries

Number of samples (n)

IgG (mg/dL)

IgA (mg/dL)

IgM (mg/dL)

1 delivery

6,400dl

100dl

400dl

2 deliveries

6,400

200

400dl

3 deliveries

3,200dl

100dl

4 to 6 deliveries

11,200

800

800dl

Different lower case letters in the same column show stastistical differences between them (p<0.05).

The factors that lead to a successful transition period for the cow will also lead to the production of good quality colostrum which will ensure the health of the new born calf.

Key messages • The cow needs the same nutrients in the close up period from up to 30% less DMI

Interestingly, low protein diets fed during the dry period have been shown to have more of an effect on the absorption of colostral antibodies by the calf, than the quality and quantity of colostrum produced.

• Adhere to the golden rules of space and grouping • Supplementary vitamin E and selenium will boost colostrum production

Importantly, inadequate vitamin E and selenium intake during the dry period has been shown to reduce colostrum volume (Lacetera et al., 1996). Equally as important, it is also shown to reduce udder oedema and the incidence of retained foetal membranes (RFM) as well as affecting neutrophil chemotaxis and superoxide production in early lactation; two important functions of the immune system (Politis et al., 1995,1996).

• Vaccination of dry cows during the dry period will improve colostrum quality

Vaccinating dry cows for rotavirus, coronavirus, and E. coli can help to improve the quality of colostrum by increasing the levels of pathogen specific antibodies. However, it is essential to ensure that vaccinations and boosters are administered within the recommended time window. There is evidence to suggest that

Dr Huw McConochie Head of Dairy Technical Services m: 07771 740857 e: huw.mcconochie@wynnstay.co.uk @HuwMcConochie

COLOSTRUM

For more information on implementing a comprehensive transition programme, please contact your regional Wynnstay Dairy Specialist.

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OLD HALL CALVES In this article, we look at how Andrew Long is making a success of calf rearing at Old Hall Farm with support from his vet and Wynnstay Calf Specialist. Andrew Long farms at Old Hall along with his wife, Jodie and children, Thomas and Rosie. They milk 250 cows and rear young stock with approximately 250 calving per year. Black and white heifer replacements and beef calves are reared, with beef calves sold as weaned stirks or store cattle. The calf rearing system utilises H&L Calf Igloos, a Volac Urban Feeder and Wynngold TM Stellar milk powder with the calves consuming 150g/L of powder within 6L of fluid per day.

Investing in equipment Investing in igloos and an automatic milk feeding machine has vastly decreased the disease pressure on the calves at Old Hall Farm. Providing calves with a warm well ventilated environment allows them to use more of their energy towards having a strong immune system to fight disease. At the same time, energy is diverted towards growth instead of keeping warm. Overall stocking density has also been reduced by altering an old building so the igloos sit on the outside and the calves run inside to the machine feeder. In addition, using a milk machine allows the calf to drink more milk than on a once or twice a day bucket system. Finally, Westmorland Vets have introduced the pneumonia vaccine Rispoval Intranasal: this is given from nine days old and provides protection from two of the viruses which commonly affect young calves. Andrews says using the Rispoval Intranasal feels like the ‘belt and braces approach’ to calf health. As an aid to management, Andrew and Kirsty use a white board to record pneumonia, scour and mortality rates which allows them to keep a close eye on how the calves are performing, this flags up problems and allows early intervention. Pneumonia rates have reduced from 48% to 10% since these changes have been implemented and the mortality rate has dropped from 7.2% to 2.8%. In the past calves struggled to reach the target growth rate of 800g per day and now they are regularly achieving 1,200g per day.

‘Joined-up tack’

OLD HALL CALVES

Between Andrew, Kirsty and myself we would describe the process for the calves as a ‘joined-up tack.’ Andrew has excellent attention to detail which I would strongly suggest is the reason for his success, along with Kirsty’s proactive approach and advice. Investing in the range of gold standard nutritional products and equipment Wynnstay has to offer, Andrew has ‘smashed’ the UK average daily live weight gain (DLWG) target (0.8kg/day) and massively reduced disease. The calves are ‘turning the corner’ at Old Hall Farm after assessing all practices influencing calf health, and making capital investments which have had a significant impact on calf performance. Changes to; colostrum management, housing, feeding regime and vaccination will all have played their part. Andrew Long, Tom Stephenson (Wynnstay Dairy & Youngstock Specialist), Kirsty Ranson (Westmorland Vets)

Andrew now focuses on getting a minimum of 3L of colostrum in to all calves within six hours of birth, recognising that colostrum is vital to provide the calf with antibodies to help fight infection in the early weeks of life. Kirsty monitors the success of antibody transfer by doing a simple blood test on young calves when she is on farm, this test confirms that calves are receiving adequate colostrum.

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Financially this has a huge benefit for Andrew as each case of pneumonia in a dairy heifer is estimated to cost approximately £46 (including medication costs, reduced growth rate etc) (Ref. Westmorland Vets) so a reduction of 38% equates to a saving of £1,748. In addition, he has more live calves and bigger, stronger heifers, building a reputation for the future.

The daily live weight gain (DLWG) is measured to the farm specific target and to ensure the calves are going to calve down at 24 month. AHDB research has shown that it can cost £344 extra per heifer calving at 28 months. This would equate to a saving of £34,400 for every 100 heifers calved into the herd at Old Hall Farm.

Pneumonia rates have reduced from 48% to 10% since these changes have been implemented and the mortality rate has dropped from 7.2% to 2.8%

For more information on the complete WynngoldTM Calf Rearing package from Wynnstay please contact your regional Wynnstay Calf Specialist.

Thomas Stephenson Dairy Specialist - North England m: 07469 851607 e: thomas.stephenson@wynnstay.co.uk @tomstivy

OLD HALL CALVES

With reduced age at first calving, reduced disease and reduced mortality rates the cost benefit to Andrew outweighs the investment and will drive herd performance and profitability forwards at Old Hall.

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REARING BEEF CALVES - THE NATURE OF THE BEAST Beef rearing systems used across the UK are very similar to the systems we were using 50 years ago. However, as eating habits change, and the animals we are rearing are changing in shape and size all of the time, surely it makes sense that the systems we use for these animals would also change? It is all too easy to blame the abattoir, or supermarket, for penalising an animal that is too heavy or too fat. However, we have to remember that the supermarkets are driven by consumer buying habits and, in turn, supermarkets drive the abattoirs. Along with competition from other sources of cheaper proteins like chicken and pork, the beef industry is also facing the challenge of a change in buying habits from the consumer. The majority of customers are buying less expensive cuts of beef, leaner cuts of beef, and smaller packs of beef.

The ever-changing beast One thing we must remember is that the basic aim of beef rearing is irrespective of breed. Whether dealing with a dairy cross, or an Aberdeen Angus, we want to finish the animal as quickly as possible and as cheaply as possible. If these animals are fed on a good quality diet, higher daily live weight gains (DLWG) should be achieved and in return a reduced slaughter age. Having said that, each system is different and there is no â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;one size fits allâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; approach to achieving this goal. Supermarket/abattoir requirements Unfortunately, we are in a time where abattoir requirements can change in a short period of time with very little notice. This is definitely something to be aware of and keep on top of. Do not let yourself fall in to the trap of only finding out that your cattle are too heavy when you get your cheque from the abattoir and have been penalised. With many now penalising for a beast over 400kg, and some giving bonuses for animals under 24 months, achieving those high DLWGs and an earlier slaughter age can potentially be more profitable than a longer keep.

REARING BEEF CALVES

So, with these changes in what the consumer is demanding we should be treating our farms as a business and changing the end product to match demand. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s consider a few things now.

It is all too easy to blame the abattoir, or supermarket, for penalising an animal that is too heavy or too fat

The young bull A volatile market in the UK to say the least! Strange that you would struggle to eat a steak on the continent that was not a young bull, yet we have one supermarket in the UK refusing to use them at all. Fear not, as we speak there are still many abattoirs killing young bulls and many more supermarkets still stocking it. However, be aware that parameters may have changed, with some penalising for bull beef over 16 months. Young bulls can be a quick turnaround, cashflow product on many farms and have efficient feed conversion ratios that can

WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

FOCUS ON CALVES 2017

be utilised. Just make sure you have a market for your product before investing too heavily. Feeding the beef calf Good youngstock management is critical to reducing loses, producing healthy calves and finishing stock at an earlier age. Beef cattle in America are killed around 16-18 months old. With supermarkets requiring smaller carcases, there is no reason why we cannot finish cattle earlier and save months of feed and labour bills. In the UK it is estimated that 7% of registered beef calves die before reaching six months of age (DEFRA, 2008). Many factors will contribute to this number; poor colostrum management, disease and poor nutrition. Feeding a high level of milk replacer can improve growth for beef calves and improve calf health. Early in life calves have a feed conversion ratio of 1:1. This means that for every kg of feed they receive, they will gain 1kg of body weight. This is a period of growth that every farmer should take advantage of and not a time to be feeding a restricted diet. We should be utilising the genetic potential in this period when it is most economic to do so. A recent study, on dairy bred beef calves, by Harper Adams University investigated the effect of 750g of milk replacer a day, versus an accelerated milk feeding programme where calves received 900g milk replacer diet. The study showed that by the age of weaning, those calves on the higher complete milk replacer (CMR) diet gained an extra 7.6kg than those on the lower CMR diet. The study also showed that those on the lower CMR diet did not ‘catch up’ i.e. exhibit compensatory growth from weaning to 12 weeks. Taking into account the cost of milk replacer, and cost of pre-weaning morbidity, feeding 900g of CMR had a lower cost/ kg DLWG compared with feeding 750g (£1.42 versus £1.66/kg). The trial showed that feeding higher levels of CMR resulted in calves with less pneumonia and scours (HAUC 2017).

Feeding a high level of milk replacer can improve growth for beef calves and improve calf health

For more information on rearing beef calves please contact your regional Wynnstay Calf Specialist. Eimear Diamond Calf Specialist - South & South West England m: 07881 379008 e: eimear.diamond@wynnstay.co.uk @diamondcalf1

REARING BEEF CALVES

In summary, feeding beef calves a good quality milk powder at elevated rates enables them to grow at a faster rate much younger, therefore, achieving the ultimate goal of finishing sooner.

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MEETING THE NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF GROWING HEIFERS Heifers present the second biggest cost on any farm. Shockingly, a massive 14.5% of all live born heifers fail to reach their first calving (Feed For Growth, 2016). Making the decision to rear your own replacements is not a decision to enter into lightly. If the decision to rear heifers is the right one for your business, you must ensure that a significant investment is made in these replacements. Heifers must calve at 22-24 months to offer the business a sound return on investment. However, the problem facing many is simply, how do you make sure these animals are big enough to serve at 13 months? Just how big is big enough? Unfortunately, a common benchmark for self-assessment is all too often ‘what my next-door neighbour does!’ When it comes to making sure you have accurate weights for your heifers, using your neighbour’s benchmark for first service weight at 224kg will be no good if you’re milking Holsteins and your neighbour milks Jerseys!

NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Rule number one, know your serving weight. The first service weight of your heifers is 55% of your herd’s mature herd weight. The easiest way to identify what this figure represents is to use the weights of your cull cows which left the farm in good condition. A Holstein herd with a typical mature weight of 680kg would have a first service weight of 374kg.

If the decision to rear heifers is the right one for your business, you must ensure that a significant investment is made in these replacements The first 12 weeks The latest science shows that the first eight to ten weeks of a calf’s life represents a huge opportunity to improve the longterm performance of a dairy herd. A focus on maximising genetic potential in early life could help to reduce the indirect costs of sub-optimal milk production whilst increasing herd productivity. Therefore, during the first three months targeted weight gain should be as close as possible to 1kg/h/d. The potential will depend on breed type, for example for Friesian calves it’s more

achievable to aim for 750 - 800g/h/d, but for Holstein heifers with good genetic potential 1000g Daily Live Weight Gain (DLWG) is perfectly feasible. The most cost effective time to grow calves quickly is in the first few weeks of life, as their feed conversion rate during this period is at its most efficient i.e. 1kg of powder can produce 1kg of growth early in life. However, it is this crucial stage that presents the biggest ‘bottleneck’ on farms today. It is simply not possible to achieve a target of 1kg DLWG by feeding 750g/h/d of powder, as you will not be meeting the nutritional requirements of the animal. During the first month of life a calf is very much a simple stomached animal, so you can ignore dry feed as a major source of nutrients because in reality calves can’t utilise much at this early stage. Even if we look at feeding 900g/h/d of powder, which many deem as ‘the gold standard’, this is only really an indicator of a minimum feeding level. How much should I feed? There are a huge and confusing number of calf milk replacer specifications in the marketplace, but it is essential that you choose a suitable specification in order to meet your objectives. When feeding to maximise growth rates, a high quality powder must be used. This will reassure you that elevated feed rates will not induce nutritional scour. For instance, if we take a high quality, high energy 23% protein milk powder (e.g. WynngoldTM Bloom) and your rearing goal is to achieve 1kg DLWG, the calf will need the milk powder alone to supply a total of 19.4 (MJ/h/d) and 280g/h/d of protein. This is based on NRC recommendations, which were outlined in 2001, and should be viewed as minimum standards. Feeding 1000g/h/d of this powder will give you 18 (MJ/h/d) of energy and 230g of protein. It is clear that this amount does not meet the calf’s nutritional requirements to achieve a 1kg DLWG. However, if we increase the amount of milk powder fed to 1250g/h/d it will supply 22.5 (MJ/h/d) and a protein intake of 287.5g, satisfying the calf’s requirements. In summary, when it comes to feeding milk powder, we must feed more than the desired DLWG target. On many farms where this is not always feasible due to labour constraints, the automatic calf feeder is an excellent way of increasing feeding frequency as it will allow the calf to drink little and often over a period of 24 hours. Once the calf is four weeks old we can begin to account for nutrients derived from dry feed intake, and there is scope to reduce the milk feed at this point if starter intakes are sufficient.

WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

It is simply not possible to achieve a target of 1kg DLWG by feeding 750g/h/d of powder, as you will not be meeting the nutritional requirements of the animal Example feeding plan to achieve 1000g DLWG Start ’n’ Wean Intake (kg FW/day)

WynngoldTM Bloom Intake (g/h/d)

0.5

1100

1.0

750

1.5

400

FOCUS ON CALVES 2017

Example Diet – Feeding plan (kg as feed/head/day) Quantity

Feed

9kg 2kg 0.9kg 0.9kg 0.05kg

Silage

0.05kg

Premier Youngstock Mineral

Bread Maize Distillers Grains Rapeseed meal Limestone flour

In calf to calving Once heifers are in calf, consult your Dairy Specialist for advice as in many cases a dry cow diet will suffice, providing the protein content is correct. During the maintenance phase it is unnecessary to aim for any more than 0.5kg DLWG or we run the risk of problems at calving.

3-5 months

Ideally heifers fed straw need to be on a 20% protein nut from weaning to five months of age, with straw preferably chopped and plenty of fresh, clean water. Intakes should be around 4kg per head. If turning heifers out to grass, it’s vital that they are supplemented with some concentrate initially as it takes the rumen up to three weeks to adjust to a different forage. Grass growth in a UK summer can be erratic, so a low level of concentrate offered daily will supplement the ‘peaks and troughs.’ 9-13 months At this point heifers can fall into the ‘danger zone’ where they can get fat. It’s important to provide heifers with enough protein during this phase to achieve frame, but not so much energy that it makes them fat. If you are feeding a concentrate and straw diet, feeding an 18% protein concentrate doesn’t satisfy their requirements unless you are prepared to feed large amounts. Opting for a balanced 20% protein concentrate such as Heifer 600 produces a reliable result. Alternatively, if good quality forage and a mixer wagon are available then the most cost effective option may be introducing a TMR diet.

For more information on implementing a comprehensive heifer rearing programme, please contact your regional Wynnstay Calf Specialist. Rebecca Davies Senior Calf Specialist - South Wales m: 07881 093633 e: rebecca.davies@wynnstay.co.uk @richardscalf1

NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Ideally the average Holstein heifer should have reached 120kg by 3 months. What follows is a critical stage in growing healthy heifers. It is important to build on the momentum of the preweaning progress you have achieved. There is a temptation to introduce silage and cheaper feeds at this stage, but it’s important to remember that the rumen is still very much in its infant stage. It’s not uncommon for heifers on a high milk feeding programme to be consuming 3kg/h/d of starter at weaning due to the increased appetite they develop, and this needs to be taken into consideration as any growth checks now could prevent service at 13 months.

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SPRING CALVING 2017 I am currently living on a 400 cow spring calving dairy farm in Brockton, Much Wenlock, with my partner and Herd Manager, James Yeomans. The farm is part of the Grasslands UK Enterprise and we have been living on the farm for 18 months. It is a spring calving grass-based system, focusing on lean management and milk from grass.

Farm Statistics

programme and served to an early gestation bull so we have them calving a week before the bulk of the cows. This allows us to monitor the heifers closely, parlour train them, and reduce the stress of being mixed in with the cows. The heifers also benefit from an extra week between calving and mating to recover. 61% of our 115 heifers held to AI first servicing, so we are due to have a busy calving period.

• 400 milking cows • 450 youngstock (R1 and R2s) • Milking platform 123.5HA, Stocked at 3.2/HA • 88HA youngstock grazing • 36HA silage / winter ground • 27HA fodder beet • 86% of cows due to calve in the first six weeks • 0% mortality of heifer calves over 24 hours old

Main Calf Protocols • Heifers and bulls kept separate but same protocols for both • 4L of good quality tested colostrum within six hours (ideally within two hours) of birth • Removed from calving pen as soon as possible • Tagged • Navel dipped • 3L of milk twice per day • Ad lib access to Wynnstay Start ‘n’ Wean, straw, and line up water from one day old

Clean & ready for calves

Calving has begun! 10th February

The first heifer calf is on the ground. Protocols are vital at this early stage. We try to avoid using heifer colostrum, as they are not Johne’s tested, and the quality often isn’t as good as the cows. Instead, tested cows’ colostrum is used as a replacement. All of the colostrum used is tested with a bovine refractometer, and high quality colostrum which has a reading above 22% (50mg/ ml immunoglobulin) can be used or stored in buckets and chilled down to prevent bacteria build up. The calves are tagged, navel dipped and receive 4L of colostrum via a stomach tube straight away. The calves are also regularly blood tested to determine total protein, to determines whether successful passive transfer has been achieved.

SPRING CALVING

Calm before the storm

20th January The official start of calving is 19th February. After a relaxing few weeks of the parlour not getting turned on, now is the time to begin the final preparations before calving. This includes thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the buildings we use for our calves water troughs and all hurdles, in addition to servicing the feeders. Pens are set up and bedded down ready for any early arrivals, and the calving yards are cleaned out, disinfected and bedded down. The first animals to go in to the straw yard area are a group of 68 ‘close to’ heifers that have been outwintered on fodder beet, and bale silage. These heifers were synced on CIDR

Bovine refractometer

WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

FOCUS ON CALVES 2017

The joy of night checks!

3rd March Carrying out night checks is often my favourite time to be on the farm, there are nearly always newborns to be sorted when we go to the calving yard in the evening. Firstly, I head off to the dairy and put the colostrum on to warm whilst James checks around to take calved cows’ numbers, we then collect the tags, iodine and colostrum and get back to work. The calves are snatched and moved to a clean pen, tubed, tagged and dipped and the cows are marked up. This is especially important because we could have more born throughout the night and trying to match them all up can be especially challenging. Smaller calves also get a Wynnstay calf Jacket. The temperature outside is currently 3°C so calves are using energy to keep warm, research shows that calves that are given jackets averaged an extra 3.1kg live weight gain between 17 days old and weaning at around two months old better with coats (Ref 1), therefore enabling us to have an even weight profile of the calves.

If it’s good enough for the cows...

Hygiene is key when rearing calves and it begins in the calving yard. The yards are cleaned out and disinfected every three weeks, and bedded down every other day. Calves are removed as soon as possible and are moved in to fresh pens; no calves are ever put into pens already used by older calves. This is really what I believe contributes to the low mortality rate and disease incidence, all feeders are cleaned with hot water and detergent and disinfected after use.

Ref (1) KingshayCalf Jacket Survey 2015

Calf number one!

7th March The calves are doing very well so far. They started in groups of four, and when all are drinking well they are mixed into pens of 20 then groups of 40 soon after. Calves are fed on 6-8L of whole milk per day, slightly more if the outside temperature is below 5°C, from either a 20 teat milk bar or 50 teat milk bar, which is pulled behind the mule. Water and Wynnstay Start ‘n’ Wean nuts are offered in buckets from day one. Last season they were on a blend, although they took to it well I thought Start ‘n’ Wean would help to develop the rumen and in turn enable them to get more efficiency from the grass when it comes to turn out. Start ‘n’ Wean contains Nutritionally Improved Straw (NIS), which has been a contributing factor in us having zero incidences of acidosis and bloat. James has also stated that “the calves took to Start ‘n’ Wean almost immediately and the performance has been impressive so far this year.”

Turn out

26th March The eldest calves have grown exceptionally well, the dry spring we are having has helped, great news for us because it means today the first batch of calves can be turned out. The eldest calf is five weeks old now, and the rest of the group of 40 not far behind, we select a dry weekend with the forecast looking positive for the next week and out they go. The calves continue to have adlib access to Start ‘n’ Wean, 6L of milk split in to two feeds and grass.

Weigh day Calves are weighed every month and grouped appropriate to size. Having even groups of well grown calves is key to managing the system. Calves need to grow at an average of 0.8kg/day to achieve our target weight of 320kg at bulling. By monitoring growth, the groups can be rearranged according to size as necessary and any calves falling behind are fed an increased plane of nutrition to

SPRING CALVING

Calf management

Hygiene is key

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aid growth rates and are also kept on milk for longer. The oldest group of calves are averaging 0.81kg/day and the younger group of calves averaging 0.71kg/day, as the younger calves consume more Start ‘n’ Wean I would expect the growth rate will increase to their older counterparts. The calves get weaned at around 8-10 weeks, and this is determined by whether the calf is eating an average of 1kg of Start ‘n’ Wean nuts and weight of 90kg. Weaning is done using a step-down approach, the calves will get their evening feed cut down by half a litre/day until they are just on one feed of 3L in the morning, they will then remain on that for seven days before that volume will be decreased slowly over the course of a week.

Spring has Sprung!

The end is nigh

SPRING CALVING

15th April Calving has slowed right down and we are predominantly calving to Angus. A second group has been moved outside as the pressure on the building was just starting to show, we do not have purpose built calf sheds so have to be careful of the impact of overstocking on ventilation. We have just had a slight wobble where cryptosporidium reared its ugly head in a small group of calves, isolation and fluids every three hours saw us through along with a stringent biosecurity/foot dipping protocol.

James Yeomans - Manager of Poplars

For more information on implementing a comprehensive heifer rearing programme, please contact your regional Wynnstay Calf Specialist.

As a spring calving unit, overall we couldn’t have asked for a better spring; the cows are currently averaging 26.5L on 1kg of blend and grass and have started showing strong signs of oestrus. The mortality of calves over 24hours is currently at 0%, which is the second year running we have achieved this figure, a combination of colostrum management and good stockmanship of the calf rearer Liz Cope are the main factors in maintaining this standard.

Jessica Charlton Calf Specialist - Shropshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire m: 07990 584740 e: jess.charlton@wynnstay.co.uk @charltoncalf1

WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

FOCUS ON CALVES 2017

MANAGE COLOSTRUM AND SAVE ON VETS BILLS In a recent survey in West Wales, 48% of calves born in a three month period didn’t receive sufficient colostrum (Welsh Dairy Youngstock Project). The figure is likely to be the same throughout the country.

The WynngoldTM colostrum management system has been designed to make sure all colostrum can be tested and graded according to quality. There is always a supply of colostrum stored in the freezer, and having a thermostatically controlled, agitated Store & Thaw water bath on standby means it can be defrosted, safely, without destroying the antibodies, in less than half an hour.

The WynngoldTM colostrum management system means high quality colostrum is always available day and night and can be warmed up in the Store & Thaw water bath and fed within a few hours of birth. This gives every calf a good chance of survival and also gives the herdsman a better lifestyle.

For many years the importance of colostrum has been acknowledged and yet some still haven’t given it top priority. The widespread use of in-feed antibiotics has helped to mask calf disease on certain farms, but now that there is a drive to get rid of blanket treatment with antibiotics, there is a real opportunity to look thoroughly at calf rearing protocols and put a plan in place to make the most of this fantastic resource and reduce calfhood disease without antibiotics.

Colostrum comes as a ‘free gift’ with every calving and yet much of it is wasted if the timing of feeding is too late. The first six hours of life is the key time to offer colostrum. The calf’s gut lining is receptive to antibodies at this time and later in the day it becomes progressively less able to absorb antibodies. So the vulnerable calves are those born at night, whose mother has problems, like a pendulous udder, fat teats or a skittish heifer. Health problems like milk fever and a premature calving can also result in a poor supply.

PYON Store & Thaw Water Bath Thermostatically controlled, agitated, portable water bath, designed to thaw colostrum quickly and efficiently (within 15 minutes)

For more information and video, go to www.pyonproducts.com/shop/store-and-thaw/

We spend plenty of money on sexed semen and good genetics but if the heifer can’t express her genetic potential (or dies) all this money is wasted.

Steve Brown Ruminant Feeds Product Manager m: 07774 855026 e: steve.brown@wynnstay.co.uk @sirbilly55

MANAGE COLOSTRUM

A human baby absorbs some immunity via the placenta, yet a baby calf is born with absolutely zero immunity. All the immunity to bacteria is passed on from the cow’s colostrum. Zero colostrum means zero immunity. Late feeding of colostrum means partial immunity and poor health. A simple blood test via the vet will tell you how well your current practices are working.

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ADVANCE TM CALF STARTER FEEDS Start ‘n’ Wean Nuts Maize, wheat and barley — release starch at variable rates which is digested to create volatile fatty acids. These organic acids stimulate the growth of rumen papillae which grow longer in this healthy environment Nutritionally improved straw (NIS) — slows fermentation, prevents acid peaks and enables the rumen to extract more nutrients. Increased intakes and improved daily liveweight gains Hipro Soya — highly digestible protein source, essential for growth Sugar Beet Pulp, Molasses — natural sugars help growth of a healthy bacteria population to digest concentrate efficiently GreenlineTM health package that provides yeast, essential minerals, vitamins and nutraceuticals to boost immunity and help the calf overcome health challenges A high quality 6mm nut, available in 20kg bags, 500kg tote bags or bulk (4t minimum)

Super Krunch + AlfAlfa Coarse Mixture Flaked maize, rolled barley, rolled beans – high quality starch for rapid rumen development Sugar beet pulp, molasses – natural sources of sugar NIS pellets – healthy, reduces acid load, increased intakes and improved daily liveweight gains AlfAlfa – natural, high quality source of fibre and protein. Encourages cudding Hipro Soya, Rape – high quality protein sources, essential for growth Calf mineral/vitamin supplement – A high quality 18% coarse blend protein, manufactured to high standards. Available in 500kg tote bags and 25kg bags.

ADVANCE TM REARER FEEDS AdVanceTM Heifer 600 Nuts For the progressive heifer rearer looking to achieve high growth rates for lower calving ages Ideal for feeding with straw from 3 months of age High energy from distillers, soya, cereals (including maize) Starch & Sugars from cereals and sugar beet pulp to ensure rapid, efficient growth 20% protein - high quality protein from hipro soya - maximises rumen function, forage intake and utilisation Balanced minerals, vitamins and trace elements - ensure efficient feed utilisation, good strong bulling activity and strong, healthy feet Biotin improved hoof integrity Correct balance of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium ensuring good strong bone development A high quality 6mm nut, available in 20kg bags, 500kg tote bags and bulk (4t minimum)

AdVanceTM Rearer 18 Nuts Can be with straw and/or silage from 3 months of age Good energy level – from wheat distillers and other high energy raw materials ensuring growth targets are achieved Starch & Sugars from cereals and sugar beet pulp to ensure rapid, efficient growth Digestible Fibre from Nutritionally Improved Straw - to help overcome acidosis 18% protein - maximise rumen function, forage intake and utilisation Balanced minerals, vitamins and trace elements - ensure efficient feed utilisation and good strong bulling activity and strong, healthy feet Correct balance of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium ensuring good strong bone development A high quality 6mm nut, available in 20kg bags, 500kg tote bags and bulk (4t minimum)

WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

FOCUS ON CALVES 2017

EQUIPMENT Holm & Laue Computerised Calf Feeder

Holm & Laue Milk Taxi

Standard ‘Start up package’ includes 50 collars

Pasteuriser versions also available

Förster Technik Vario Feeder

Urban

Volac Milk Shuttle

Feeds up to 100 calves

Feeds up to 50 calves

100L, 150L, 200L and 250L

Wydale 5 Calf Feeder 36673

60625

2 litres/calf

WynngoldTM Colostrum Management Kit

PYON Heatwave 68330

Feeds up to 30 calves 21

Efficient collection to freeze colostrum

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EQUIPMENT AND MILKS Heatwave Milk Warmer • Heats and feeds milk replacer powder or whole milk on an ad lib feeding system, promoting fast growth and healthy stock • Feeds up to 30 calves • Hygienic, milk is stored cold • Thermostatically controlled 25L tank • Labour saving Heatwave Milk Warmer

60625

Wydale Mobile Milk Mixer The mobile milk mixer is an ideal tool for ferrying milk to calf pens • 400mm diameter wheels makes light work of rough terrain • Large discharge tap positioned at the lowest point eliminates wastage and facilitates washing out after • Height: 1,120mm • Body Depth: 700mm • Depth (with handles): 1,320mm • Width: 610mm • Capacity: 110L Wydale Mobile Milk Mixer 110L

34951

WIN!

FFERS O L A I C E SP or orders f e l b a l i a av tween placed be uly June &ctJyour local

CALF MILK POWDERS

nta please co Specialist lf a C y a t s Wynn details for more

WynngoldTM Rich Cream and Turbo Start milk powders are LifeStart approved products, meaning they have specific nutrient profiles to ensure the calf gets the best start in life.

Stock

Protein Source

Analysis Protein/Oil

Health Package

Turbo Start

Dairy

Whey

26% Protein/ 17% Oil

Greenline 500 iu VitE

Rich Cream

Dairy, Beef

Skim

23% Protein/ 20% Oil

Greenline 500 iu VitE

Bloom

Dairy, Beef

Whey

23% Protein/ 20% Oil

Greenline 500 iu VitE

Stellar

Dairy, Beef

Whey

23% Protein/ 20% Oil

Gardion 500 iu VitE

Swift

Dairy, Beef

Whey

21% Protein/ 19% Oil

Gardion 500 iu VitE

Thrive

Dairy, Beef

Whey

22% Protein/ 18% Oil

Greenline 500 iu VitE

Beef

Whey

22% Protein/ 17% Oil

Greenline 500 iu VitE

Prime Beef

Freeflow versions are available See page 20 for Calf Starter and Heifer Rearer Feeds 22

WIN!

WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

FOCUS ON CALVES 2017

ale Mobile Milk yd W or er m ar W ilk M e av w at He a

Mixer 110L

Complete the information below to be entered into a prize draw to win your choice of either a Heatwave Milk Warmer or Wydale Mobile Milk Mixer.

* indicates a required field

*First Name:..................................................................... *Last Name:............................................................................. *Email Address:................................................................................................................................................................. Are you an Account Holder? If Yes, please enter your Account Number:..................................................................................................................... *Farm Name:..................................................................................................................................................................... *Address:............................................................................................................................................................................. *Postcode:......................................................................................................................................................................... *Contact Number:.............................................................................................................................................................. What livestock do you rear?

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Enter online at www.wynnstayagriculture.co.uk/competition Or send your completed form by post to: Wynnstay Group Plc Marketing Department Unit 4 Glovers Meadow Maesbury Road Industrial Estate Oswestry SY10 8NH Calf Competition Prize Draw Terms and Conditions: The closing date for entries is Monday 31st July 2017. • The winner will be chosen at random from all entries on 11th August 2017. The winner will be contacted directly and details of the winner will be announced on the event website (www.wynnstayagriculture.co.uk) after 11th August 2017. You must complete all required information to be entered into the competition. • Only one entry per customer. There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition. • The winner may be required to take part in promotional activity related to the prize draw. Employees of Wynnstay Group Plc or subsidiary companies are not permitted to enter the competition. We accept no responsibility for entries that are lost, delayed or incomplete. The winner is permitted to make their choice of prize from the following two options- a Heatwave Milk Warmer or Wydale Mobile Milk Mixer 110L. The winner is only permitted to select one prize. The winner can make their prize selection once they have been notified that they have won the competition. We reserve the right to withdraw or change the competition at any time. • There is no cash alternative to the prize. The prize cannot be transferred or exchanged. Judges decision is final. By entering the competition you have accepted these terms and conditions.

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0808 168 7998 • dairy@wynnstay.co.uk

For contact details of your local Wynnstay Specialist or Store, or for product information and to request a quote, please visit

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01691 828512 (Llansantffraid) • 01267 231341 (Carmarthen)

WYNNSTAY ARABLE

01939 210555 (Shropshire) • 01757 617000 (Yorkshire)

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Wynnstay (Agricultural Supplies) Ltd • Eagle House • Llansantffraid • Powys • SY22 6AQ • Registration Number: 5009019 Part of Wynnstay Group Plc • Eagle House • Llansantffraid • Powys • SY22 6AQ Registration No: 2704051 Telephone: 01691 828512 • Fax: 01691 828690 • Email: info@wynnstay.co.uk • www.wynnstay.co.uk Registered in Wales and England • Vat Reg No. 168 7221 87 If you do not want to receive information of this nature please call 01691 662690 or write to Wynnstay Marketing Department, Unit 4 Glovers Meadow, Maesbury Road Industrial Estate, Oswestry, SY10 8NH