Kieran Mailey

2 months ago | farmersjournal.ie | Kieran Mailey

The cost of keeping the cow over the course of the year is the biggest expense within every suckler herd. However, few farmers know what it costs their business to maintain a herd of suckler cows year on year. Running costs will vary depending on certain factors, such land type, housing system, overheads, machinery finance etc. The type of suckler system is another factor and will determine the level of inputs purchased annually.

2 months ago | farmersjournal.ie | Kieran Mailey

Cow temperament can quickly change during labour and immediately after calving as the animal’s maternal instinct kicks in. Do not take cow behaviour for granted. Cows may be docile most days, but a sudden change in temperament when calving is possible and catches farmers off guard, resulting in accidents. Keep safety in mind at calving time, especially when other family members are helping out. Outlined are some safety tips for calving time. 1.

2 months ago | farmersjournal.ie | Kieran Mailey

On every farm, there will be occasions when a cow calves early with no milk and calves struggling to feed unassisted. Getting two to three litres of colostrum into these calves within the first few hours of life is crucial. But hand-milking this volume of colostrum from a stressed cow after a hard labour, especially a first-calving heifer, is not an option. Therefore, you will need to feed colostrum from another cow or a powdered product. Both have merits and drawbacks.

2 months ago | farmersjournal.ie | Kieran Mailey

Dairy calf-to-beef systems have seen significant growth in the Republic of Ireland (ROI) within the last decade as dairy cow numbers expanded in the post-quota era. In 2024, approximately 60% of prime cattle kill processed in ROI were animals born to a dairy dam, with the remaining 40% being suckler bred. Five years ago,that ratio was the mirror opposite, according to Teagasc livestock specialist Alan Dillon.

2 months ago | farmersjournal.ie | Kieran Mailey

The closed period for slurry spreading expires at midnight on 31 January, with farmers able to spread organic manures under suitable conditions from 1 February onwards. Prior to the lifting of those restrictions, CAFRE held an open day on the Watson farm outside Coagh in Co Tyrone on Tuesday, to promote responsible use of slurry and farmyard waste. Attendees were reminded that during February, buffer zones to water courses and application rates differ from those in place from March to September.