Cattle

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.

Wireworms: Late continuous rainfall, especially in the summer rainfall areas, led to severe wireworm infestations in smallstock

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 15 years, consistently been rated among the top in the country.

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. Mike Burgess visited her to better understand her success as a livestock farmer.

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 received from feedlot consultants and laboratories.

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 genetics.

The growing stray dog problem calls for greater co-operation between municipalities, animal welfare groups and farmers before it escalates out of control.

In her informal study, Jane Holliday investigates the differences between Holsteins and Jerseys.

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 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.

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 working together.

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 of the Netherlands, explains how to make quality grass silage.