Brian Reidy: Autumn Sucklers Calving on the horizon

At this time of year most suckler’s will calve cows while outdoors.

As we head into August and the evenings begin to close in, the autumn suckler herd will soon start calving. Herd owners with autumn herds must now turn their attention to plans for a successful calving season, healthy calves and optimising performance from autumn grass.

After the recent drought, growth is virtually non-existent, meaning the quality and quantity of grass available to freshly calved cows will be a major concern. I have all of my September calvers weaned at this stage and will soon wean the October calvers.