As we come to the end of what has turned into a particularly dry summer, it is time to turn our attention to the rapidly approaching autumn calving season – but what does calving in autumn entail?
Autumn calving is becoming increasingly popular in the Waikato for many reasons, including longer, warmer days and improved hygiene conditions as cows calve.
However, along with the benefits come certain challenges and key considerations that need to be accounted for, particularly when milking through the winter.
Benefits
A significant advantage of autumn calving is the reduction in calf illness, likely due to warmer weather and drier conditions keeping calf sheds cleaner.
Additionally, calves expend less energy on thermoregulation, allowing their bodies to focus on immune system development and growth.
Another reason many farms are shifting to autumn calving is the winter milk premium offered by some dairy companies, making it a financially attractive option.
Producing milk during the colder months can provide a more stable income stream and balance workloads throughout the year.
Challenges
While there is minimal published research comparing autumn and spring calving, we can safely assume many of the difficulties faced with an autumn-calving herd are associated with shorter day lengths and wetter conditions. These include:
Milking in winter
With darker mornings and evenings and increased likelihood of inclement weather, efficient lighting and warm, dry conditions for workers become even more important.
Managing milking facilities during winter
Ensuring cow comfort and maintaining a high standard of shed hygiene during colder, wetter months is essential to prevent mastitis and other health issues.
Pasture management
Wet ground conditions can lead to increased pugging and pasture damage, requiring careful rotation and supplementary feeding strategies. These conditions also increase the risk of lameness.
Key considerations
Animal health considerations for autumn calving are largely similar to those of spring calving.
Pre-calving vaccinations for Coronavirus, Rotavirus, Clostridia, and Salmonella remain essential and should be scheduled at least 3-4 weeks before calving begins.
During the transition period, proper mineral and trace element management is crucial for ensuring cows reach peak production early in lactation. This also supports reproductive health, helping cows begin cycling sooner and reducing the risk of metabolic issues.
We offer whole-herd and selective testing for key minerals, such as copper, selenium, and B12. We also stock a wide range of supplements to help you address deficiencies.
When rearing autumn calves, colostrum quality is just as critical as it is in spring. Store colostrum in a cool location, as residual summer heat can degrade its quality if it’s left at room temperature. Ensure each calf receives at least 4–6L of high-quality colostrum within the first 12 hours of life, ideally during the first 2 hours post-birth.
By planning ahead and implementing best management practices, farmers can make the most of the benefits of autumn calving while mitigating its challenges, so it may be an option to consider. Talk to your vet if you have further questions.
If you are already an autumn calver and you would like support with herd health, vaccinations, or trace element testing, our team is here to help!
