How big is too big? As the search for grass and feed continues, as prices continue to rise for hay, gas and diesel, producers need to start thinking about your cow and goat size. Is bigger better? Are 1,000-pound cows better than 1,300-pound cows? How big is a good cow? Are 200 pound goats better than 150 pound goats? The simple answer is that one size does not fit all operations. Just how big are the animals you are turning out to pasture is the real question.
My herds are probably not unique for the southeast. Cows are a combination of Angus and Angus cross breeding; my goats are predominantly Boer and Boer crosses with the lighter-weights showing the influence of Georgia native composite breeding.
Heat, humidity and drought in the southeast means the livestock that works best for my farm must be a moderate frame size for feed efficiency. Droughts, hay shortage, high feed costs require that our animals excel in feed efficiency and raise a calf or kid with less input. We try to keep what profit the cows and goats generate on the farm rather than give it to the feed stores.
While sorting does and kids, cows and calves for spring and summer pasture, one needs to make sure your plans for stocking rates are compatible with your area and biology. This is especially important in dry areas.
The quantity and quality of daily intake is a factor and the amount an individual animal eats is influenced by total body weight. Overstocking of total body weight is a serious concern for pasture and browse managers.
Every producer needs to know the weight of the animals that are turned out to graze and browse. Your decision making requires knowledge. Size and weight is one of the crucial pieces of information needed for good management. Don’t guess; know your animals’ weights. Monitor weight and adjust the stocking rate based on weight, age, nutritional requirements and pasture quality and forage availability.
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