Milk Production, Composition and Calf Gains of Angus, Charolais and Hereford Cows

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Abstract
Data on milk yield and composition and calf gains were collected from 15 Angus, 15 Charolais and 15 Hereford cows during a 175-day period. Cows ranged in age from 2 to 10 years. Milk yields were estimated monthly by the calf-nursing method at two 12-hr, intervals. Samples of milk were collected near the beginning, about midway and at the termination of the study, for determination of percent butterfat, solids-not-fat and total solids. Differences in yields of total milk and total solids due to breed and age of dam were highly significant, whereas differences in percent butterfat and percent solids due to these effects were nonsignificant. Average estimated milk yields were 664, 785 and 581 kg. for Angus, Charolais and Hereford, respectively. Milk yields of cows 2, 3 through 4, and 5 years of age or older were 553, 667 and 809 kg., respectively. Differences in total calf gains due to breed and sex of calf were highly significant, whereas age of dam effects were not significant. Average gains per calf were 123, 160 and 127 kg., respectively, for Angus, Charolais and Herefords. Bull calves gained significantly more than heifer calves. Average daily gain and average daily milk production were significantly correlated only in the initial period. Copyright © 1967. American Society of Animal Science . Copyright 1967 by American Society of Animal Science