Speaking at a dairy fertility meeting in Cavan on Thursday night, Doreen Corridan of Munster AI outlined management tips for farmers ahead of the breeding season.
Corridan said too many farmers put an inexperienced bull to work with large numbers of cows when they are unable to cater for them.
“You must get your ratio right. A young bull will be able to work with 15 cows or heifers, while an experienced bull will be able for 30... you can’t beat an experienced bull,” she said.
“A bull in the second-season versus a first-season bull is the difference between minor and senior football. Dairy farmers put themselves in a lot of hassle when it comes to bulls. You need a second-season bull,” she added.
Worn out
Corridan also offered advice on how to handle a newly-purchased young bull.
“Ideally, you want to have seen him being able to mate – that’s first and foremost. Then, as well known, a young bull can get tired from too much activity too early on. He could have worn himself out before the cow is ready to stand. You want to put a bull in a paddock with one heifer (and) see how he gets on for a couple of hours. If he hasn’t mated, then bring out that heifer and bring in another one.
“The key for you when you have a new bull is to vaccinate properly, get the ratio of cows right and keep the bull fed,” she said.
The dairy fertility meeting was organised by Co Cavan vet Finbarr Kiernan.
Top tips to get the most out of your bull this breeding season