How to Livestock

Heifers form the future of any beef cattle breeding concern, and should therefore be selected with care, says animal scientist, Danie Bosman. He spoke to Annelie Coleman about how to go about this.

When performing a visual evaluation of the animal, note the following features in particular: frame size, muscle and body structure, and breed character.

South Africa’s sheep and wool industry needs experts to maintain the current high standard of sheep classing.

The Santa Gertrudis is a hardy, medium-framed, short-haired animal, and well adapted to a variety of climatic conditions.

The methods and time of weaning play a vital role in beef production by influencing the weaning weight of calves, as well as the condition of the cows.

Given the high cost of supplements, is it worth feeding lambs on veld? A recent study provides some answers, says Roelof Bezuidenhout.

Although an animal with hoof problems may be able to function normally, malformed hooves can have an impact on production and performance. Annelie Coleman spoke to cattle farrier and hoof specialist, Johan Combrink, about problems encountered and how to deal with these.

According to the Ruminant Veterinary Association of South Africa, vaccination is crucial in preventing illness in animals.

Every animal is unique, and stock handling can leave distinct marks on individual animals. These two facts can be used by law enforcement officers to prosecute stock thieves effectively. Gerhard Uys spoke to expert witness Mort Mortassagne.

Ensure that you have the right facilities: a crush pen, a neck clamp and a squeeze chute.

Spread by ticks, Congo fever can be fatal for humans if left untreated.

Correct selection is crucial for a high reproduction rate, high weaning weight and low calf mortality in a beef cattle herd, says the ARC’s Leslie Bergh.