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Q4 births to dairy dams lift slightly
Wednesday, 17 February 2021
By Bronwyn Magee
According to the latest data from BCMS, births to dairy dams totalled 353,700 head during the final quarter of 2020. This is 10,200 more (3.0%) than the same period last year. Despite this increase, total births to dairy dams for the quarter were down just 0.5% (1,600 head) on the five-year average (2015-19).
For the quarter, November saw the largest percentage increase in births to dairy dams at 115,500 head for the month, up 3,400 head (3.1%) on the same month in the previous year. October and December also recorded increases on the year, up 4,000 head (3.0%) and 2,800 head (2.8%) respectively.
The year in summary
In 2020, total births to dairy dams increased on the previous year by 1% (14,300 head), standing at 1.47 million head. Although, this is comparable with the five-year average, up just 3,300 head (0.2%).
While the latest data shows a slight increase in births to dairy dams in the fourth quarter, we have seen a shift in the profile of calvings this year. The data shows a higher proportion of calvings in February/March and August/September. This may be due to producers shifting towards spring and autumn calving blocks, or those operating block systems tightening up the calving window over the last 12 months.
What can we expect over the coming months?
Grass growth was variable throughout 2020, which meant keeping cows in good condition may have been more challenging. While the quality of first-cut silage was reported to be good, there was large variation reported between producers, and adverse weather conditions later in the year led some producers to be concerned with forage levels. TAs such, managing cow condition over winter could be challenging for some producers, compounded by the higher costs of bought-in feed.
Winter so far has been colder than average and remarkably wet, which could impact cow condition going forward depending on when grass can be accessed. Looking ahead, the EU long term forecast suggests spring may be drier than average, which may impact future grass growth. Although the wet winter will help to offset any issues with this initially. It should also be noted there is lower confidence in long-term weather forecasts.
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