Cattle

Veld management has more to do with the season of rest than the system of grazing. Izak du Plessis discusses strategy and action for managing stock on veld during drought.

Second-generation Argentinian farmer Ricardo Mendizabal runs 4 100 cattle in the Entre Ríos province of Argentina and owns a cattle transport and cattle auction business. Anneli Groenewald spoke to him through interpreter Hendrik Jordaan during Farmer’s Weekly tour to Argentina.

In many parts of the country a shortage of roughage is going to be problematic in the months that lie ahead. Protein and energy supplements should be in place to prevent losses.

The Australian Droughtmaster will be a serious new player in the South African beef cattle arena, says Droughtmaster breeder Johan van der Nest. Annelie Coleman reports on the potential impact of this breed on the local beef scene.

Seo Mtetwa, MD of Nu Dawn Eggs, talks about the company's beginning, success and future.

Dairy farming is difficult, with high overheads and tight margins. Dairyman JK Basson believes that focusing on detail and personal supervision is key to survival in this demanding industry.

Stock theft is a major problem which costs the livestock industry millions of rand every year. Chief Samuel Ramugondo spoke to Peter Mashala about his personal battle with stock theft, which has left him with a son in jail.

As a result of late summer rains during the first half of April there was an increase in parasite numbers (wireworm, long-necked bankrupt worm and brown stomach worm).

Anglers and food connoisseurs worldwide agree that trout makes exciting fishing and excellent eating. But what goes into farming these iconic fish? Lloyd Phillips visits Simon Bunn of Peak Trout in the Drakensberg to find out.

Being a part-time farmer on land surrounded by residential estates hasn’t stopped Piet van der Merwe from producing champion Dexters. Lindi van Rooyen spoke to him about breeding a uniform Dexter with a calm temperament.

At a carcass competition, a livestock producer can test his production methods and standards through the expert eyes of the judges. Producers and consumers also benefit from top quality meat. Lloyd Phillips reports.

In the summer rainfall area numerous reports were received of wireworm infestations. This internal parasite sucks blood and symptoms in sheep and goats are anaemia (pale mucous membranes) and bottle jaw. As it may be resistant to some of the anthelmintic groups farmers should consult their vet on how to control the parasite.