The effect of time between calvings and the length of lactation and dry period on milk production of recorded cows

Abstract

Data from the Queensland dairy cow production recording scheme between 1953-54 and 1961-62 were analysed for production, period between calving, length of lactation, and dry period. Ninety per cent of cows had periods between calvings of 10 to 14 months. The length of lactation was 180 days or more for 90 per cent of all lactations, and for every month by which it exceeded 180 days the production of butterfat increased by 20 to 25 lb. The dry period for 78 per cent of the cows was between 5 and 16 weeks. Maximum production was given by cows that had a dry period between 5 and 8 weeks. The results were consistent, showing only minor variations from year to year.