Behavioural factors influencing by-product and residue acceptance by livestock

L.R. Matthews

Ruakura Animal Research Station Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hamilton

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1987, 47: 21-23

Waste by-products and crop residues are a valuable source of feed for ruminants. In many instances low feed quality and acceptance limit the utilisation of these resources. The main factors influencing acceptance are the chemical and physical characteristics (palatability factors) of feedstuffs and the dietary experience and social environment of the animals.

The likely acceptance of a new product, relative to that of many other rations, can be predicted from its position on a preference scale. Exposure of sheep or cattle to feedstuffs early in life can produce large increases in the rate of acceptance of, and proportions of animals consuming, typically unpalatable items.

It is clear that by manipulating early feeding experiences and other factors determining ration acceptance the utilisation of by-products and residues by livestock can be increased substantially.

Keywords: NZSAPAB; By-products; crop residues; acceptance; diet selection; early experience; preference scale

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Last Updated 03-05-1997