Sucklers must be milkers too

Numerous suckler cow studies in Teagasc Grange over the years have demonstrated the importance of milk yields when it comes to maximising weaning weights.

The extra weight a suckler calf puts on when it is suckling on the cow stays with it throughout its life.

A suckler cow that does not have reasonably good milk yields has no place on a suckler farm and, more importantly, should not be providing any replacement heifers for the herd.