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When it comes to Christmas presents, the best gifts are those that people need for day-to-day tasks.
Every farmer loves a gift that can be used on farm, regardless of how big or small those presents are. So for those family members looking to buy gifts for beef farmers, listed below are some suggestions.
The options will vary in price depending on the budget, but, hopefully you hit on something that makes a difference.
1 Cattle clippers
A good set of electric cattle clippers is a great gift idea, as it is something farmers rarely buy for themselves.
Clipping cattle during the winter housing period helps to keep animals cleaner, stops them sweating and cuts down on problems with lice, which all improve animal welfare.
2 De-horning iron
A handheld dehorning iron makes dis-budding calves a much easier task to carry out. De-horners can run on gas, or a rechargeable electric battery, and both work equally well when used correctly.
Handheld units are much easier to use and far more portable than the traditional guillotine dehorners, gas cylinder and cauterising iron setup.
3 Calving jack
Every suckler farm should have a calving jack, so if the old one has issues with the ratchet, or started to rust, then a new jack for Christmas will be gratefully appreciated.
4 Silage fork
A less expensive but crucial piece of equipment for any farmer is a good silage fork for winter feeding. They come in all lengths, making it easier on the back when forking in fodder to livestock.
5 Hand scraper
Another less expensive gift idea is a new hand scraper to clean cleaning sheds and handling pens after use. It can be used to push in silage and meal, or push out rejected fodder.
6 New farm overalls
A new set of farm overalls, ideally with some thermal properties, will make working through the winter more tolerable. Overalls can be plain, or have the brand name of a favourite type of farm machinery.
7 Work boots
A new set of work boots, or wellies, will again make working outdoors during the winter more bearable. An additional extra is to include some thermal socks for added comfort.
8 Calving camera
A big present that can make a difference is a new calving camera. It is a more expensive option, but long-term it will be a good investment.
To make it more affordable, splitting the cost between multiple family members may an idea to consider.
There are numerous options on the market, so look around to get value for money. Ideally, opt for a camera that links to a smart phone, as well as a TV monitor.
9 Meal cart
To take the strain out of meal feeding, buying a farmer a meal cart will save many trips across the yard carrying buckets of concentrates in and out of cattle sheds.
A meal cart, or feed cart, is basically a large wheelbarrow that can be placed below a meal bin and filled. It can then be wheeled into the shed, making it easier to feed concentrates.
10 A good penknife
Despite its modest size and cost, a good penknife is invaluable. Whether it is for opening silage bales or cutting rope or strings, opening fertiliser bags, no farm can do without a reliably sharp knife.
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