Influence of first calving age and nutrition on the performance of early mated Nguni heifers (Short communication)

Author: J.M. Lepen, S.J. Schoeman and H.A.W. Venter
Year: 1993
Issue: 5
Volume: 23
Page: 204 - 206

The effect of early mating on the production and reproductive ability of Nguni heifers was investigated. One group (MN group) of heifers (n = 15) was stall-fed from weaning and mated at approximately 13 months of age. The second group (CN group) (n = 30) was reared on veld and first mated at approximately 15 months of age. Calving percentages of 73.3 and 75.9 were achieved, while the weaning percentages were found to be 66.7 and 69.0 for the two groups, respectively.  Reconception rates were 83.3 and 78.3% for the MN and CN groups, respectively. Body mass of the MN and CN heifers differed significantly (P ≤0.01) only after calving (286.3 vs. 315.9 kg). Birth and weaning mass of calves did not differ significantly between the two groups. Cow efficiency indices were significantly (P ≤0.05) higher in the MN group compared to the CN group (2.4 vs. 2.0). It was concluded that, even with a restricted mating period of 42 days, Nguni heifers could be successfully mated at the age of 13 to 15 months. No dystocia problems were experienced.

 

 

 

Keywords: body mass, early mating, Nguni heifers, Reproduction
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