Animal Science, Department of
Date of this Version
1-1-1998
Abstract
Effects of summer calving versus traditional spring calving were investigated over three years. Calving dates were: 1) March to April (beginning March 18) for spring calving and 2) mid-June to mid-August (beginning June 18) for summer calving. Spring-born calves were weaned in October, while summer-born calves were weaned in November or January. Summer calving cows were bred either on native range or subirrigated meadow. Birth weights were higher for summer-born calves, although weaning weights were lower. Pregnancy rates for spring-calving cows bred on native range were similar to summer-calving cows bred on subirrigated meadow or native range. Summer calving reduced the amount of hay necessary to winter the cow herd by about 3,150 lb/hd/year. The amount of supplement fed/cow/ year was similar for spring and summer calving cows. Summer calving offers significant feed and labor savings for cow-calf producers.
Comments
Published in Nebraska Beef Cattle Report 1998, published by Agricultural Research Division, University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension, and Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska–Lincoln.