recips

[RankeCattleCo]

Does anyone have experience using Holstein x calves as recipient cows in ET programs? We have a December 15th Holstein x Hereford heifer calf that we figured would work okay. We would be able to put an egg in her the first year because she is 3 months older than most other heifers are when they calve... plus I believe dairy breeds will always have less calving problems than beefers, no matter how they're bred.

Thanks,
RCC

 

[Till-Hill]

They work real well for couple years. I got an 8 year old Simmental x Holstein that lost a quarter couple years ago because calf didn't get after it soon enough. They need some extra feed if you want them to take an egg the next year as they will make alot of milk.

Never had any calving issues except mothering ability has been all but been bred out of dairy cattle. I'd want to calve them in small pen close to home.

I'd put an egg in yours if possible for a Jan calf then wean calf early and shoot for a March next time. That works the best. Good luck!

 

[RankeCattleCo]

So.. Because of their lack of mothering ability shoot for an early calf the first year?

 

[Till-Hill]

Not because of mothering ability but for keeping her calving on time. Getting a older I don't think will make her a better mother at first calving.