Production characteristics of an open range cattle herd in South-East Pilbara region of Western Australia.

Abstract

Production and management characteristics of an open range shorthorn beef cattle herd were recorded for a four year period on a cattle station in the south-east Pilbara region of Western Australia. Herd numbers increased from 893 to 1538 resulting in a 72% increase in grazing pressure on the grazeable portion of the lease. Branding rates varied from 54 to 78% of the cows present for mating the previous year. Mortality rates increased from 4% in 1974 to 15% in 1976. Losses anlong cows older than six years and female calves were significantly higher than among animals in other age and sex categories. Turnoff during this period of herd build-up varied from 3 to 11% of the herd.