Animals

The design of an aquaculture system is essential to the operation’s success, and should be appropriate to environmental conditions and staffing skills.

Winterfeeding, according to Free State commercial cattle farmer Johan Dannhauser, should not be seen as a separate operation. Rather, it is part of a year-round system that involves all aspects of herd production and pasture management.

Using estimated breeding values has dramatically improved the stud genetics of Free State breeders Chris Nel Snr and Chris Nel Jnr of Eversar Sussex stud. Yet they continue to take visual evaluation very seriously. They explained to Gerhard Uys how they combine these methods.

If you are willing to put in the time with trotting poles, you will be rewarded with better balance, more elegance and a generally superior riding experience, says Kim Dyson.

Putting on a blanket in winter helps to maintain your horse in good condition, says Dr Mac.

Tink Strydom’s Hartebeesfontein Stud produces Merinos that excel on grassveld and have good medium to strong wool. He spoke to Gavin Isted.

Riverine tilapia species are more suitable to South African aquaculture conditions than lacustrine species.

To raise healthy and uniform birds in a chicken house, it is essential to maintain optimal heating and ventilation at all times. Sonét Roux, technical advisor at Country Bird Holdings, explains to Wilma den Hartigh what this entails, and how it can help a farmer achieve top production rates.

Bringing a horse into work takes commitment and effort, as well as common sense, cautions Kim Dyson. Here she suggests an easy, practical exercise regimen.

In preparation for winter, most farmers in summer rainfall areas are supplementing their livestock feed. However, agricultural researcher, Jan Hoon, explains that normal winterfeed supplementation is not enough for animals in drought-stricken areas.

Landowners and trophy and biltong hunters should ensure they are up to date with the legal requirements for carrying ammunition and transporting meat as well as the environmental conservation ordinances.

Judges discriminate heavily against sickle hocks in the show ring, but how do they affect performance? Dr Mac provides some answers.

The versatile tilapia is found all over Africa, but not all species are suitable for aquaculture production.

Outeniqua Moon Percheron stud farm near Mossel Bay boasts the largest Percheron ever bred in South Africa. The stud is renowned for its ethics as well as its success in breeding massive horses, because when it comes to Percherons, bigger is better, says Jay Ferreira.

Every horse should be equipped with its own saddle, and this should be checked twice a year to ensure that it still fits well, says Kim Dyson.

Although still controversial, cloning geldings to make breeding stallions with the same DNA has become big business, says Dr Mac.

Dr Erika van Zyl discusses alternative manners in which to deal with parasites in smallstock.

Jo Spilsbury discusses how the use of chicken trailers has optimised egg production.

Not all fish species are suitable for aquaculture simply because they grow large in their natural habitat.

It is possible to pay less to feed your horse without compromising its health, says Kim Dyson.