Progress report on the performance of Jersey cows differing in
breeding index
A.M. Bryant, T.E. Trigg
Ruakura Animal Research Station, Hamilton
Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production.
1981, 41: 39-43
Comparative data on Jersey cows with breeding indices of about
125 (HBI) and 100 LBI) are presented. In two trials during the 1979-80
season involving 38 HBI and 38 LBI cows, milkfat yield was 172 and 127
kg/cow respectively. Differences in milk composition were small. In
one of the trials, the amount of fresh pasture eaten by HBI and LBI cows
during 105 days of stall feeding was 1401 and 1175 kg DM respectively.
Gross efficiency was similar in early lactation but subsequently gross
efficiency of the LBI cows decreased more than that of the HBI cows.
HBI cows were approximately 45 kg heavier at calving and gained less
weight and condition during lactation. Supporting data from the 1980/81
season also presented.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
Last Updated 12-09-1998
