Observations on the behaviour of single-suckled calves from birth to 120 days

A.M. Nicol and M.A. Sharafeldin

Lincoln College

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Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1975, 35: 221-230

Observations on the suckling and grazing behaviour of a group of 24 calves sired by either a Friesian or Angus bull and suckling Angus and Angus x cows were made from dawn till dusk at intervals of approximately 3 weeks from birth to 120 days of age.

An analysis of the 153 calf days showed a decline in suckling frequency but an increase in the duration of suckling up to 30 days of age after which suckling behaviour remained constant. The breed type of calf affected suckling behaviour. Friesian x Angus calves suckled for longer than Angus calves. Calf grazing time increased rapidly with the age of the calf until at 120 days; grazing time was equal to approximately 70% of adult grazing time. Grazing time was affected by the milk production of the cow and was reduced by 11 min for every additional litre of milk produced by the cow per day.

The practical implications of these observations are discussed.

Keywords: NZSAPAB;

Last Updated 24-08-2000