Farmers breeding heat tolerant cows to better cope with changing climate
By Brooke Chandler
A fourth-generation dairy farmer is using a world-first genetic index to breed heat tolerant cattle, with his animals grazing in hot, sticky conditions and producing large quantities of commercial-grade milk.
"Aotearoa grows over 400,000 tones of wheat every year, 80% of which is fed to the dairy herd. Most of the bread in New Zealand is made from imported Australian wheat, because we can't grow enough wheat to feed both humans and cows."
#ClaireInsley, Vegan and Plant-Based Living magazine, issue 56, Summer 2024/25
"There are currently 5.9 million dairy cattle in Aotearoa, who consume 75% of the total grain and feed in the country; we humans eat only 9%. The herd needs around 20% supplementary feeding [feed provided in addition to grass] and some 50-60% of supplementary feed on most dairy farms is imported."
#ClaireInsley, Vegan and Plant-Based Living magazine, issue 56, Summer 2024/25
Made baklava for work tomorrow morning as something nice for everyone after doing dry off. Might have left them 3 minutes too long in the oven. #iykyk #dairyfarming #farming
1964 A Day in the Life of a Dairy Farmer
The image depicts a rural scene with a person in a long coat and hat riding on the back of a cow, which is pulling a cart.
This suggests that this photo captures a historical moment from around 1964, as indicated by the copyright date on the lower left corner.
It could be related to agricultural practices or farming culture during that time period.
https://nocontext.loener.nl/fullpage/04-April1964-Page-161.png
Couldn't be prouder. Young dog, 9 months old, obediently giving cows time on the path. First evening off the lead. He's alert and interested and responds to "lie down". Magic!
