Livestock Disease Trends – May 2014
Roundworms: Although conditions in the summer rainfall area are not so conducive for new wireworm infestations, there were still numerous reports of losses due to this parasite.
The Hugenoot makes its mark in the Waterberg
Mike Burgess recently visited Franci-Mari van Heerden, owner of the Witrots Hugenoot stud, and secretary and board member of Hugenoot SA, to find out why she chose the breed.
Livestock Disease Trends – April 2014
Due to late rains that fell in many parts of the country infestations of roundworm and especially wireworm were widespread, leading to production losses and mortalities. Lambs were the most...
Choosing the future with Simbras
When Krisjan Kruger returned to the family farm near Elliot in the Eastern Cape in 2004, Simbra cattle would become central to his operation. Mike Burgess recently visited him on...
Warm reception in Chile
Dohne Merino sheep are improving wool production profits in Chile, with a reduction in fibre diameter already evident. Dohne Merino consultant Cameron McMaster reports.
Veld test: Santa Gertrudis proves its worth
The North West Veld Santa Breeders’ Study Group has demonstrated the breed’s efficiency and ability under extensive conditions, confirming its value as a beef breed.
Livestock Disease Trends – March 2014
Wireworms: Late continuous rainfall, especially in the summer rainfall areas, led to severe wireworm infestations in smallstock
Strict selection is key, says top Dohne breeder
Michael Swart of Swartriver Esate near Caledon believes there is no better investment than a good sheep. He should know – his Swarco Dohne Merino stud has, over the past...
Hard work and dedication pay off for female farmer
Rachel Mamonare Mathabathe, the 2013 ARC National Emerging Beef Farmer of the Year Limpopo finalist, farms near Mookgophong on the farm Klipfontein with 300 cattle, 150 goats and 300 sheep....
Livestock Disease Trends – February 2014
For the month of February 2014, 104 reports were received from veterinarians belonging to the Livestock Health and Production Group of the South African Veterinary Association. In addition reports were...
Huntersvlei Sussex: introducing polled English genetics to SA
A Sussex stud herd near Viljoenskroon has imported polled genetics from the UK to capitalise on the advantages offered by the polled gene and to develop its own world-class polled...
Stray dogs in perspective
The growing stray dog problem calls for greater co-operation between municipalities, animal welfare groups and farmers before it escalates out of control.
The best dairy breed: A comparative study
In her informal study, Jane Holliday investigates the differences between Holsteins and Jerseys.
Tattooing and ear notching techniques
Here are two tried-and-tested alternative permanent marking techniques that are suitable for both large and small livestock. Each has its distinctive advantages and disadvantages.
Petana Beefmaster, fit and work-ready
Petana Beefmaster Stud’s success is ascribed to strict adherence to the six principles of Tom Lasater, father of the Beefmaster breed. Annelie Coleman visited the stud in the Wolmaransstad district.
Nothing beats good teamwork
The Mequatling Angus Stud is one of the top large Angus herds in South Africa. Annelie Coleman talks to husband-and-wife team Philip and Vicky Barnard about farming these cattle and...
Making grass silage while the sun shines
Although not commonly practised in South African dairy farming, grass silage production is likely to take off as dairy enterprises expand. Wim Hofman, cattle specialist at De Heus Animal Nutrition...
Making the most of grass silage
In the second part of this series, Wim Hofman, cattle specialist for De Heus Animal Nutrition in the Netherlands, continues his discussion on managing pasture for production.
Hot or cold branding: both demand good technique
The quality and clarity of a brand determine how well it will stand up in court. Good branding technique and the proper equipment also reduces stress for animals.
Grass Silage: what you put in is what you get out
Pasture grass is regarded as the cheapest feed for SA dairy cattle. In the first of a four- part series, Wim Hofman, cattle specialist for De Heus Animal Nutrition, of...
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