Heifer competition affects feeding behavior

You know that too much competition impacts how heifers eat.

A new study of Holstein heifers at the University of Guelph, published in the August Journal of Dairy Science, offers a few explanations of what happens during competition. The researchers fed 36 heifers that were approximately eight months old in either individual or competitive eating situations. They found that while there was no difference in sorting behavior or dry matter intake between the treatments, the competition for feed among growing dairy heifers alters feeding patterns, reduces access to feed — particularly during periods of peak feeding activity — and tends to increase day-to-day variation in feeding behavior.

For example, the competitively fed heifers consumed 9 percent fewer meals per day, but those meals were 10 percent longer than heifers in a non-competitive situation. Therefore, it is important to make sure there is plenty of feed available if heifers are forced to compete for feed.

1. Vilsack: Taking time to remember the fallen
2. Ag markets diverge just before the long holiday weekend
3. Study suggests dairy herd water quality linked to milk production
4. Wis. lawmakers question challenges to large wells
5. Traders evening up positions ahead of the weekend Friday
6. Bio-Vet and Keller break ground on new facility

1. Commentary: Milk faces branding dilemma
2. 4 rules for growing a business or industry
3. Salma Hayek: Milk part of 'perfect' breakfast
4. Chocolate milk a top post-workout food
5. Seven jobs more dangerous than farming
6. What do dairy exports mean for Minnesota?

1. Seven jobs more dangerous than farming
2. White House urges Senate to cut crop insurance in farm bill
3. Class III futures close out quietly last week
4. 4 rules for growing a business or industry
5. Drop in U.S. underground water levels has accelerated
6. Ongoing wave of Calif. metal theft prompts further legislation