As cattle producers begin thinking about calving season and what management practices can be used to ease their work loads and reduce the late nights spent at the barn, producers should consider feeding later in the day. Studies from Iowa State University show that cattle fed in the late afternoon and evening will calve more frequently during daytime hours when it is typically easier to keep a close eye on them. One rancher in Canada reported that after switching feeding times to later in the day that 80% of his cows delivered between the hours of 7:00am-7:00pm.
Producers should prepare now for calving and have a supplyready. Boyd Veterinary Services prepared a detailed list of items that producers should have on hand which can be found on their Facebook page, however a few items for delivery are OB chains and handles, OB lube, OB sleeves, and a rachet style calf puller. We also learn from Dr. Boyd that the most important day of the calf’s life is that very first day, so remember that Colostrum is the key to a healthy calf. A newborn calf should suckle a minimum of 1 liter of Colostrum in the first 4 hours after birth. As we know this should come from the mother but in the event that’s not an option be prepared with Colostrum, milk replacer, and calf electrocytes.
National Cattle markets have gotten off to a good start in 2022 and this is trickling down to local markets as well. This past week Cattlemen’s Livestock Exchange sale was highlighted by 10-482lbs steers that averaged $168.13 and 13-412lbs heifers that averaged 142.35. Narrows Livestock Market reported 400-600lbs steers averaging $162.00 and heifers at $117.00.
Staunton Union weekly sale was highlighted by 113-639lbs steers that averaged $165.88 and 14-472lbs heifers that brought $152.57.
Upcoming events
2/21/2022 A Lasting Legacy-Five Star Polled Herefords Bull and Commercial Female sale, Harrisville WV
4/7/2022-4/9/2022 West Virginia Beef Expo