As seasonal changes begin to affect pasture quality, livestock farmers are being urged to take proactive steps to maintain herd health and productivity.
According to a livestock farmer from Zimbabwe, what may appear as healthy grazing conditions can mask early signs of nutritional decline in rangelands.
Hook notes that even in well-managed herds—such as his Beefmaster cattle, which currently appear strong and in good condition—subtle environmental changes are already taking place.
“The grass is growing brown already,” he observes, pointing to a decline in pasture quality that could soon affect animal performance if not addressed.
Protein is a critical component in cattle diets, playing a key role in growth, reproduction, and overall health. As grass matures and dries, its protein levels drop significantly, making it less adequate as a sole feed source.
Hook emphasizes that farmers should not rely solely on visual assessment of body condition, as deficiencies can develop before animals show outward signs of distress.
Instead, he points to dung consistency as a practical on-farm indicator. “I’ve looked at their dung and it’s quite hard,” he explains, noting that hard dung is often a sign of insufficient protein intake.
This condition reflects reduced forage digestibility and slower rumen function, which can ultimately impact feed efficiency and productivity.
Hook therefore advises farmers to act early. “Now is the time to start feeding a protein lick or a winter lick,” he recommends. Such supplements are designed to boost rumen activity, improve nutrient absorption, and help cattle maintain optimal performance as natural forage quality declines.
This is particularly important for breeding animals, including those in advanced programs like embryo transfer, which require higher nutritional support to sustain reproductive success.
Ultimately, Hook’s observations serve as a timely reminder: early intervention is key. By recognizing the signs of declining pasture quality and introducing appropriate supplementation, farmers can safeguard herd health and maintain productivity through the dry season.
