A
Anonymous
While not a scientific "tast test" by any means, we have found hay preferences for our Longhorns are:
1st Place: Alfalfa 2nd Place: Haygrazer (sudan sp.) 3rd Place: Redtop Cane 4th Place: Bluestem
Alfalfa we have used small square bales for treats and supplements as needed. The other three types have been tried using the large round bales in horse hay rings (can't get their horns caught in these). One observation over the past year has been that the Redtop cane was eaten at an average rate and cattle held condition well. The Haygrazer was eaten the fastest but didn't seem to improve condition any more than others and was lot of waste due to large stems in it. The bluestem, fine stemmed native grass, eaten at a moderate rate, cattle maintained condition, little waste.
Due to availability and price here in Texas Pahnahdle, we bought a bunch of round bales of bluestem this fall for $28. a bale. Other types of hay been going for between $35 and $60 a round bale. These are all average sized bales, probably around 1000 lbs in size. Like most everywhere else, we've been in a drought for past 2+ years and lot of people producing horse quality alfalfa and bermudagrass have have been irrigating their hay fields. Non-irrigated hay fields have been hurt significantly.
Even though we have native grass pasture, we stocked up on hay to carry us until spring grass appears plus extra for a margin.
Anyone else have any experiences with types of hay fed their cattle and the critters' preferences?
[email protected]
1st Place: Alfalfa 2nd Place: Haygrazer (sudan sp.) 3rd Place: Redtop Cane 4th Place: Bluestem
Alfalfa we have used small square bales for treats and supplements as needed. The other three types have been tried using the large round bales in horse hay rings (can't get their horns caught in these). One observation over the past year has been that the Redtop cane was eaten at an average rate and cattle held condition well. The Haygrazer was eaten the fastest but didn't seem to improve condition any more than others and was lot of waste due to large stems in it. The bluestem, fine stemmed native grass, eaten at a moderate rate, cattle maintained condition, little waste.
Due to availability and price here in Texas Pahnahdle, we bought a bunch of round bales of bluestem this fall for $28. a bale. Other types of hay been going for between $35 and $60 a round bale. These are all average sized bales, probably around 1000 lbs in size. Like most everywhere else, we've been in a drought for past 2+ years and lot of people producing horse quality alfalfa and bermudagrass have have been irrigating their hay fields. Non-irrigated hay fields have been hurt significantly.
Even though we have native grass pasture, we stocked up on hay to carry us until spring grass appears plus extra for a margin.
Anyone else have any experiences with types of hay fed their cattle and the critters' preferences?
[email protected]