Alternative species for aquaculture
Catfish, silver barbel and other fish have farming potential, but there are obstacles.
Pigs as pets: Breeding teacup pigs
Steven Watermeyer is breeding micro pigs to meet the local demand for pet porkies.
Acupuncture for equines
When acupuncture is used to stimulate specific points along affected energy channels, blockages are opened and the normal flow of energy is restored, says Kim Dyson.
Wasps kill flies
Parasitic wasps are an environmentally friendly way of breaking the life cycle of flies in stables, says Dr Mac.
The 365-day capsule
Caring for racing pigeons is a year-round activity. One cannot start nursing ill birds just before the season opens, says Thomas Smit.
Livestock Disease Trends – May 2013
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...
Do’s and don’ts of moving fish
Special care needs to be taken when moving fish in order to minimise their stress levels and thus prevent unnecessary deaths.
Australian Droughtmaster thrives in tough SA conditions
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...
Nu Dawn Eggs: production tips and secrets
Seo Mtetwa, MD of Nu Dawn Eggs, talks about the company's beginning, success and future.
Battling those burrs
Burrs in the mane and tail are not only unsightly but painful, and can become an animal welfare problem, warns Dr Mac.
The Painter Putteries
Few other pigeon families have managed to equal the impact of these birds in South Africa, says Thomas Smit.
High-volume Holsteins on the West Coast
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.
The Great Nile Tilapia Debate
There are several species of tilapia to farm with. One appears to have the edge over the rest. But even this species is no miracle fish. Careful farming is still...
Dealing with Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD
Osteochondritis dissecans is an extremely painful orthopaedic disease, but it can be avoided, notes Kim Dyson.
Developing farmers feel the scourge of stock theft
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,...
Game farmer talks economics of expansion
Diversification, expansion and partnership are the building blocks of a game farming business in the Northern Cape. Wintershoek’s Wiaan van der Linde WRSA’s Game Farmer of the year in 2012...
Champion racers
Free State pigeon fanciers Jaap and Japie Pretorius had an amazing season last year. Thomas Smit reports.
Communal goat farmer planning to go commercial
Most of South Africa’s livestock reportedly occur in communal areas, but few generate income.
A lifetime passion for Merinos
This year, Hilson Shuman produced his 60th wool clip. He is as passionate about his Merinos as he was in 1952 when the death of his father, Ken, put him...
