Calving has started in earnest this year, we have hit the ground running with Bref and his expert team tackling the calving season head on. Having used less sexed semen the heifers have calved faster and earlier, compared to the last 3 years, which has been fantastic but the speed and timeframe has presented some challenges. Longer days are needed in the ‘creche’ as freshly calved cows all require thorough processing through the parlour.

Attention to detail is essential to ensure calves get sufficient high-quality colostrum as soon as possible after birth. The importance of getting this right pays dividends in calf health as the year progresses.

It is a truly special time of year as the days lengthen, snow drops give way to daffodils, newly born calves blart, lambs bleat and birds sing. Hope for what lies ahead and the anticipation of spring.