How Grass-Finished Bulls Saved Farmers £376 Per Head in Feed Costs

This summer has proven to be quite a mixture, displaying about 90% of dull and dreary weather with only a few brief moments of sunshine, unlike the scorching summers we’ve grown used to over the years.

This weather trend has its advantages for us, as much of our farmland is susceptible to drought. The wetter conditions have positively impacted the establishment of our forage crops, which has been a welcome outcome.

See also: Farmer Focus: Why I have a low-cost focus for sucklers

About the Author

Duncan Morrison

Based in Aberdeenshire, Duncan Morrison is dedicated to managing his herd of 240 Angus and Stabiliser suckler cows, along with a small flock of Lleyn sheep, with a focus on low-cost operations. He began his farming journey by renting cows and land. The livestock are overwintered using deferred grazing, bale grazing, and forage crops.

We are currently participating in a project that evaluates different wintering strategies for livestock, focusing on the entire process from forage crop establishment to feeding, and assessing their feed value relative to the costs incurred.

Alongside traditional forage crops, our system of deferred grass and bale grazing will also be part of the evaluation, making it fascinating to observe the financial comparison.

Recently, we placed an order for two bale unrollers, which will be towed by an ATV. This addition is anticipated to enhance our winter grazing processes and reduce ground damage around feeding areas.

In my earlier article, I discussed a trial where we finish bulls on grass instead of intensive indoor systems. Most of the bulls have now been sent off, and although it’s still early to celebrate, the results look promising.

They have achieved an average daily weight gain of 1.9kg from April up to slaughter, predominantly grading R or -U at fat classes 2 or 3. We’ve already identified several adjustments for next year to further enhance this system.

Although the bulls require a bit more finishing at the end, we’ve observed a significant reduction in concentrate costs, dropping from £546 to £179 per head, resulting in a gross margin ranging from £400 to £465 per head.

Looking ahead, we aim to increase our sheep numbers over the next couple of years, which is an exciting prospect.

We’ve successfully weaned all our lambs and organized a batch for sale, while also selecting ewe lambs to keep for breeding later this year.

We have been very pleased with the performance of our lambs, although it’s expected that a small flock on a cattle farm will always enjoy favorable conditions.

Recently, stock bulls were removed from their respective groups after two cycles with the cows. Despite being confident that most of the cows are in calf, it was only a matter of time before a cow went into heat just as the bull was due to be pulled out.