A couple of dumb questions

[bull1200]

A couple of dumb questions, if I may.

1. What is the average feed conversion rate for a black baldy at about 850 lbs on full feed? I'm guessing 8 to 8.5, am I close?

2. What are you all using as alternatives for fertilizer? It is insanely priced here (Alabama).

Thanks much.

 

[alabama]

What part of alabama are you in?
Feed conversion depends on the feed and the cow.
Fertelizer? Chicken litter if you can get it and stand the smell.

 

[bull1200]

In Calhoun County, near Anniston.

 

[j4cattle]

i,ve been told they will eat 30% of there body weight, so about 25#. that also depends on how much grass they are running on,or if they are in a dry lot.

 

[j4cattle]

i meant 3% of body weight.

 

[mesaroper1974]

Not sure what your feeding, but 8-8.5 isn't terrible. You could try for 6-7, that would be really good to average. From 850# on up 5 would be an excellent conversion.

 

[TexasBred]

What part of alabama are you in?
Feed conversion depends on the feed and the cow.
Fertelizer? Chicken litter if you can get it and stand the smell.

Yep...too many variables to give a good answer but feed quality would definitely be a primary factor. If it's trashy don't be surprised if you get poor results. If it consists of high quality ingredients you should be able to get one pound of gain for each 6 lbs. of supplemental feed.