Nutrition of grazing cattle. 5. A survey of the nutrition of dairy cattle in South-eastern Queensland

Abstract

A survey was made of the nutrition of dairy cattle on 68 farms in south-eastern Queensland. The protein, phosphorus and calcium levels in selectively grazed pasture were related to the class of country, the overall appearance of pastures and the predominant pasture species grazed. On only two farms was the concentration of protein and phosphorus in selectively grazed pasture below the maintenance requirements of cattle. On other properties a deficiency of protein, phosphorus or calcium was related to a low intake of pasture and thus an associated deficiency of other nutrients. The decline in milk production in winter was due primarily to low feed intakes. Total production of milk was related to initial production. Inadequate nutrition of dry cows was a major cause of low total production.