Weaning

[bncsimps]

I have a group of (5) calves born between mid Sept and early Oct 07. I plan to retain these calves and integrate back into the herd as breeding stock. The calves have been off of their mamas since April 2, 08. I have two questions regarding my options for integrating them back to the main herd:

1) How long should I leave them separted from their mamas before putting them back without having to worry about them trying to nurse? The mamas are already bred back

2) Should I keep them separated until they are yearlings?? Will integrating them back to the main herd put them at a disadvantage regarding nourishment? We have very good stand of fescue/white clover pastures.

Looking forward to reading your responses.

bks

 

[bigbull338]

since your keeping them as replacements.i would put them back with the herd as yearlings.that way you dont risk them sucking their moms.

 

[dun]

Differences of opinion on this. We keep them seperate for 6-8 weeks then just turn them back in with the cow herd. Only had one that went back to sucking and that wasn;t until the following spring when the cows started to freshen. She wasn;t bad eating.