Crickie Farm Project Update - January 2025
Forage and blood samples were repeated in October 2024. Bloods were taken from 4 animals in each livestock group (Lambs, Ewes, Calves, Heifers and Cows)
Based on the last set of blood results and forage mineral reports, the sheep results show a challenge for increased levels of sulphur and molybdenum forming a compound called thiomolybdate. This can lead to poor utilisation of energy and poor fertility.
The flock’s requirement showed their selenium levels to be good but iodine very low therefore an injectable iodine supplement was administered, with the second blood test in the autumn showing a gain in iodine levels.
Low levels of iodine were also seen in cattle with the first set of bloods. Therefore, cows and heifers received two high iodine boluses mid-August, but second sets of bloods showed no increase in iodine levels. It was decided to give minerals to cattle in the sheds with their silage.
What next?
- Crickie will review their fertiliser strategy for 2025 to reduce use of sulphur enriched products.
- Monitor fertility by looking at results from the pregnancy scanning
- An iodine pour on will be given to the cattle approximately 6 weeks before calving