Global sire sampling efforts are important in evaluating the potential for genetic progress within a breed. So that after some time you will have a record of the family tree of every individual. The Guernsey is primarily a dairy breed, one of the favorite choices of self-sustaining family farms and direct marketers of grassfed dairy products. Guernsey are efficient converters of feed to product, being of intermediate size, Guernsey produce their high quality milk while consuming 20 to 30 percent less feed per pound of milk produced than larger dairy breeds. Repeatability and heritability are two kinds of observation that the breeder can use. But, even with all this information at our fingertips, it can be hard to distinguish what is important and what isnt. Although the Guernsey is still one of Americas favorite dairy breeds, its fortunes have not recovered since the Holstein phenomenon began. Make sure the same sire semen is not used on his offspring. document.write(new Date().getFullYear()) All rights reserved. Working together as farmers group and take initiatives as a group could be advantageous. On the other hand, very popular bulls serve worldwide a million cows. 13. 5. Draft Animals One or two crosses were more profitable than Holsteins across their lifetimes, but only marginally so. The coat is red or fawn (wheat-coloured), and may or may not be pied red-and-white or fawn-and-white. The Guernsey is extremely docile. The largest herds in Kenya are kept by KARI, Naivasha and El-Karama Nanyuki. Genetic change through selection within pure breeds is and will remain a viable option, depending on trait and species, as a breeding strategy. Participate in production recording systems that contribute records to the national genetic evaluation program. Knowledge of breed strengths breed additive genetic merit is only one piece in the crossbreeding puzzle, however. Besides, researchers can also update data regularly, as needed. 1. For instance, a Guernsey can be crossed with a Holstein to improve the temperament, calving ease, and milk components of the offspring. Vegetables History Milk has high butter-fat of 4.8% Good breeds for marginal areas. Such rapid turnover in sires serves also to reduce the length of the generation interval in breeding programs. The following is a brief overview of some breeding methodologies. Milk production potential is low (10 Kg/day) The herd instinct of the Boran makes it very easy to manage in bush country. Butchers in Kenya prefer Borans and their crosses for this reason. They can also have white patches which may cover much of the animal. Prizes are offered in these events and they also offer a perfect opportunity for the farmer to market his/her stock. 96% of Guernsey cows carry the protein Beta Casein A2 in their milk. AIC Documentation Unit, Kenya. 7. Promotion of proper animal identification. 1. Within two years after that, the next generation of crossbred female will be reaching breeding age and decisions regarding her mate will arise. This knowledge will be important to help dairy producers decide which breeds would be most useful in a crossbreeding program. Calves at birth weigh an average of 28 kg for males and females, 25 kg. These cattle are mainly used for the production of milk and secondly for the Golden milk, which actually indicates nutritional value but may deter some customers. Good breeds for marginal areas, Disadvantages: By the time the first crossbred female reaches breeding age, a decision must have been made as to the breed of the sire to which she will be mated. This Zebu breed originates from India and Pakistan. To increase disease resistance in exotic dairy breeds: Introduction of animals with better resistance to disease such as Boran or Sahiwal will improve the disease resistance of the dairy breeds. Particularly high yield of value-added dairy products such as butter and cheese. Average weight gains per day on grass & feedlot: Grass = 0.7 - 1.0 kg depending on grass quality. Free sample pages are available here. No content on this site may be reproduced in any way without prior written permission. Channel Islands/Isle of Guernsey. A survey by Weigel and Barlass, 2003, of U.S. dairy producers already practicing crossbreeding showed that the respondents desired improvements in fertility, calving ease, longevity, and milk component percentages. The U.S. Holstein is a large animal with some calving difficulty issues. Owners should also be aware that the Guernsey reaches puberty at a young age. Description: This provides an early return on investment. 2 gunny bags). The most important advantage of conservation tillage systems is significantly less soil erosion due to wind and water. 6. These abilities will be called upon if the Guernsey is to regain its historic place as a leading dairy breed. Guernsey Milk Products, who entered the cheese, reported that 15.36 kg of cheese was made from 100 litres of pure Guernsey milk, whereas 10 kg is all that would normally be expected from "standard" milk in Australia. The Livestock Conservancy is Americas leading organization working to save over 150 heritage breeds from extinction. The depth of eye muscle, marbling, even fat cover and ratio of hind to forequarter make the Boran difficult to beat, hence the preference of Kenya butchers for young, well-finished Boran steers. They are cost-effective. WebGuernsey milk contains 12% more protein, 30% more cream, 33% more vitamin D, 25% more vitamin A and 15% more calcium than average milk. The cow has a well-carried udder with strong attachments and neat, small teats. When established, herds with such a program would have all three crosses at all ages, but decisions regarding service sire would be driven by the simple ear tagging system. As all exotic breeds Hereford is susceptible to tick borne diseases. 8. J. The unique golden colour of Guernsey milk, which comes from an unusually high content of beta carotene, has the potential of adding even more value for producers and consumers. Performance records (Estimatedbreedingvalues and phenotype), Natural mating (proven and healthy bulls where A.I. The medium sized Guernsey requires less feed than the larger Holstein, yet converts that feed into more Protein and Butterfat per unit of body weight. Birdwatching Note: Milk production will depend on level of feeding and other management. Russell, K. (1980). The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network. Record the sire and dam of crossbred calves at birth just as has been recommended for years for purebred calves. This website uses cookies and third party services. If AI is practiced - look carefully at the pictures and specifications of sires offered to determine whether the proposed sire will add better body conformation to the animal offspring. They have protruding eyes. This strategy hasnt been successful at increasing production enough to make the Guernsey competitive with the Holstein, and instead, it has caused the breed to lose some of its genetic distinctiveness. The breed has little or no calving problems, greater fertility, a shorter calving interval, and earlier maturity. Disadvantages: Channel Islands cattle were exported to England beginning in the 1700s where they were widely used in the establishment and improvement of other breeds. WebThey are relatively resistant to diseases and free of genetic diseases Better suited to range management than the Fresian breed Disadvantages: Feed requirements high (90-110 kg Such programs are strongly recommended. Ability to fatten rapidly either as a beef steer or as a cull cow. Crossbreeding programs are long-term decisions. The Boran is generally vigorous and alert. Advantages of a corporation include personal liability protection, business security and continuity, and easier access to capital. 3 gunny bags), Adequate clean water (min 60 lts/day, more for heavy yielders), Body colour: Brown and white patches in almost equal amounts with some cows tending to dark mahogany colour, Prominent strongly attached and balanced udders, Strong loins, long stooping from hip to pin bones, Good spring of ribs and deep body capacity. The light coat color allows them to tolerate heat better than some of the Boredom. 4. The Guernsey is the result of two centuries of continuous breed development and improvement. - Extremely docile and The Guernsey cow is an efficient converter of feed to milk products. Table 1 shows seven of the most promising breeds for crossbreeding programs. Kisima Farm, PO Box 19- 20107 Njoro The Guernsey cow is an efficient converter of feed to milk products. Guernsey are adaptable to all climates and management systems and lack any known undesirable genetic recessives. National study was established in 1963 in Naivasha with the purpose of improving the breed for milk and beef i.e. 5. University of Nairobi Farm PO Box 29053-10202 Kabete Travel (The Jersey breed was developed on the neighboring island of Jersey, and the two breeds are related.) Guernsey reach reproductive maturity at an early age and can calve at 22 months of age. The major disadvantages are that crossbreds also have the weaknesses of the breeds from which they descend and heterosis in initial crosses declines with any backcrossing to parental breeds. While inbreeding is not a major consideration for crossbreeding programs, it can occur with backcrosses to breeds previously used. It is quite normal for 15 years oldbreedingcows to be sound mouthed and it is also on record that a 16 year old Boran bull is still producing high quality semen for artificial insemination. The Principles of Dairy Farming. Generic selectors. Bennet Cassell, Virgina Polytechnic and State University (Virginia Tech) High production potential with good management and good feeding. The Jersey, Alderney, and Guernsey CowAn old book in the public domain. Here is an extract from the Kenya stud book website (need to log in):http://www.klbo.co.ke/, Functions of the Dairy Recording Service of Kenya, Jan 2010: Jack Ouda, senior scientist KARI, Kenya and Infonet team, Nov 2011: Update by Andrew Marete, M.Sc. Sahiwal bull When trading inbreedingcattle, it is often found that registration with the Kenya stud book, will more than double the price of your animals. SEE ARTICLE .PDF. When not pursuing hobbies ranging from music to gardening to birdwatching, she can usually be found researching or writing about her many interests. Selection may be direct or indirect. Between 1970 and 1990, annual registrations of purebred calves dropped by 60%. The Guernsey is an excellent choice for grass-based dairying or other less intensive They are intelligent cattle that pay close attention to their surroundings, although they do not spook easily. 6. Formal research on dairy crossbreeding in this country traces back to a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) project that began in 1939. Although Guernseys are not as frail as commercial Holsteins, they are still prone to a variety of health problems ranging from lung problems to udder infections. Chemusian Farm PO Box 86-20107 Menengai. The production is low, but in most farms the potential is not fully used. Pastures Longevity is an added profit bonus. These cattle does not require proper space to be kept, Also suitable for crossbreeding/ improving local breeds. Registration records are also an important National assets for the management of animal. [3]:192, The Guernsey is a dairy breed, and generally is reared for that purpose only. Heifers should not be bred too early, or they may injure themselves by producing too much milk. 1. Selection ofbreedinganimals is based on: The following methods are used inbreeding: This is a book which contains all the proven animals, their parentage and how one can acquire them. N/B: The successive offspring from the initial/ subsequent crossing is the one used for successive matings and not the original dam. Some AI semen providers will supply pictures of offspring, with strengths highlighted. How much milk does the average dairy cow produce in a year? Both quantity and quality must go together for efficient production. Throughout this site you will find affiliate links to items that we have read or used and highly recommend. Books Better milk composition (depends on your market), 5. The medium sized Guernsey requires less feed than Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Guernsey is strong numerically, especially in Britain, but the breed has an uncertain future. Depending on your goals for breeding animals different breeding techniques can be used. Some breeders have sought to stop this decline by increasing milk production, often through the introduction of Red Holstein. Results of a producer survey regarding crossbreeding on US dairy farms. Horses The two races can cross breed, and the crosses can be very productive both in terms of growth rates for beef, improved milk production as well as diseaseresistance. KAR Lanet, PO Box 1275, Nakuru Poultry Calving problems hardly exist. Disadvantages: It would appear that the Guernsey is currently caught between two conflicting trendsincreasing milk yields to meet the needs of commercial mass production and preserving traditional characteristics to fill the demands of an increasing number of small farms. The Boran society was formed in 1951 and its panel of inspectors continues to ensure that the breed progresses and keeps up to date with the demands of modern beef production. Guernseys are very popular for crossbreeding purposes. We rely on the support of our members, grants, and donations from the public to raise the $700,000 a year needed to maintain our conservation work with rare breeds of farm animals. Boran heifers reach puberty at an average age of 13 months. By using this site you are agreeing to our terms of use. Gogar Farm PO Box 6-201080 Rongai 2. Ontulele (Biddy Davis) Nairobi Tel-891518) [8] Guernsey cows produce around 6000 litres per cow per year.[9]. There is some anecdotal evidence that this protein MAY be better for the health of some people than the Protein Beta Casein A1 that is found in most other milks. The breed became a significant genetic foundation for the American dairy industry, contributing to the general mix of dairy cattle, as well as being used as a purebred. 116-120 . More importations followed between 1850 and 1880. Frequent calving in their lifetime, longevity, so need less replacements, They are known for their versatility: they provide high quality milk and high quality lean meat, Susceptible to diseases, susceptible to milk fever, Feed requirements high (90-110 kg fresh forage/day i.e. Unfortunately, Holstein cattle also have disadvantages besides clear advantages in milk production, Three-breed systems, at equilibrium, maintain 86 percent of full heterosis and can reduce large differences from one generation to the next in rate of maturity, mature body size, milk components, and associated nutritional requirements that some two-breed rotational systems may create. These two importations introduced America to the Guernsey, and the breed quickly became a favorite, first as a family cow, then as a supplier of milk for dairy businesses. Livestock 3. Very hardy and disease resistant animal, Disadvantages: These animals were crossed with the existing Dutch cattle and formed the basis of the Friesian. Stewardship Guernsey breeders selected their cattle for consistency of color, ranging from fawn to golden, with white spotting and golden skin. They have an attractive carriage with a graceful walk, a strong back, broad loin, wide rump and deep barrel, strong, attached udder extending well forward, with the quarters evenly balanced and symmetrical. Use AI or natural mating - carefully noting the name of the sire providing semen at each AI service or the bull mating the cow - next to the name of the cow in your diary. The effectiveness of indirect selection depends upon the correlation between two traits. 6. 4. Selection aims to change the gene frequencies in order to improve the subsequent generations. 3. The cheapest way of making sure no inbreeding takes place is to: Genes determine the way animals look - the observable trait. is not available), Multiple ovulation embryo transfer (MOET) (. Benefits of crossbreeding depend on good sire selection within the pure breeds, just as purebreds depend on within-breed selection for genetic improvement. University of Nairobi Farm PO Box 29053-10202 Kabete The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. Milk has high butter fat content 5.2%. Farms keeping Guernsey in Kenya (options): 1. 1. Cattle shows, which began in 1828 on Guernsey, hastened the process. Its milk is rich in flavour, high in fat and protein, and has a golden-yellow tinge due to its high -carotene content. Further, genetic evaluations of crossbred cows are available, provided herds are on appropriate DHI testing programs and properly identify their cows by sire and dam. View all posts by hsotr, Animal Health In USA reports show that Holsteins cows have been very successfully crossed with Guernsey bulls. ADC Olngatongo PO Box 680-30200 Kitale They can be found very easily. The closing of the island herds encouraged the standardization of the islands breeds. The Guernsey's ability to produce high percentages of protein and butterfat enhances her economic value to processors of manufactured dairy products like cheese, butter and ice cream. The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user. Table comparisons of results of inbreeding/linebreeding and outbreeding. Advantages: Plant Health Reach out to us, INFONETBIOVISONDUDUVILLECAMPUS ICIPEP.O BOX 30772 -00100, NAIROBI KENYATEL +254719052117, EMAIL: m.hunziker@biovision.ch, cmunene@biovisionafrica.org, Unless otherwise stated, all content on the Infonet Biovision Website is licensed under a, Animal health promotion, welfare and disease prevention (IFOAM Norms), Organic animal husbandry: Breeding, housing and feeding (IFOAM Norms), What to consider when choosing to keep animals (IFOAM), Human - animal relations in organic agriculture (IFOAM), Disease Prevention (Ticks, Wounds, Vaccination), Holistic disease management and veterinary treatment, Cattle (new with animal welfare standards), Donkeys (new, with animal welfare information), Chicken (new, with animal welfare information), Camels (new, with animal welfare information), Sheep (new, with animal welfare information), Fish farming (new, with animal welfare information), Rabbits (new with animal welfare information), Geese (New with animal welfare information), Goats (new with animal welfare information), Pigs (new, with animal welfare information), Assisting with birth in cattle, goats and sheep (new), Birth and Reproduction complications (new), Calf white scours / diarrhoea (calf enteritis), Young animals: Lamb and Kids problems (new), Peste Des Petits Ruminants (PPR) (Goat and Sheep), Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) and Pseudo-lumpy Skin Disease (PLSD), Tick management and Tick Borne Diseases (new), East Coast Fever Complex (Theileria parva parva, Theileria parva lawrencii), Diseases Killing very fast - Killer diseases (new), Bovine Viral Diarrhoea and Mucosal Disease Complex, Breeding in Organic animal husbandry (in Animal health promotion and disease prevention according to IFOAM norms here, Integrating animals into the farm (in what to consider when choosing to keep animals) here, Guernsey cow exhibited at 2009 Kenya Livestock Breeders Show, High milk production potential with low butter fat content of about 3.2%. The milk is also naturally high in A2 Beta Casein. However, increased reliance may be placed on herbicides with Links We know less than we need to know about some of the breeds in Table 1 for these characteristics, but we are learning fast as first crosses of Normande, Montebeliarde, and the Scandinavian breeds appear in U.S. dairy herds. Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC) Katuke Complex, PO Box 1392-30200 Kitale Choosing a Breed of CattleIs the Guernsey right for you? The first recorded importation of Guernseys occurred sometime around 1830, when a schooner captain named Prince took two heifers and a bull to his home in Boston. document.write(new Date().getFullYear()) All rights reserved. One of the best advantages of the internet is that it keeps us on top of the news. 9 Embryo Transfer in Cattle- Advantages and Disadvantages . Kenya Aryshire cattle breeders emphasize on medium cow balanced for type, production, longer life and fertility. 3. 4. Hall, D. Phillip Sponenberg (2016). If these individuals are mated to one another, then 25% of their offspring would have double the undesired trait (one from each parent), and another 50% would carry the undesired trait in their genetic base. Indirect selection improves a trait by selecting cows with a related trait. At that time, imports into Guernsey were stopped and the island herds were closed.
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