Livestock Production Systems
This page introduces some of the current research and consultancy work from our Animals Department.
To read a more on each example, simply click on the links to be taken to an explanatory report in Openfields, the landbased library online.
Reducing piglet mortality using supplementary milk: Larger litter sizes in sows create competition for teat space which means that piglets may grow less well. A study of the effects of a liquid milk supplement delivered through a milk line has shown that a well-managed pig unit can reduce piglet mortality and save costs. Contact the author, Alan Stewart.
Improving the use of home grown forages: Studies with whole-crop cereals at Harper Adams are investigating the effects of processing at harvest on forage use and dairy cow performance The optimal conditions to harvest and ensile whole-crop peas and beans have also been established and their inclusion in lamb and dairy cow diets is being investigated. Contact the author, Dr Liam Sinclair
Poultry Behaviour and Welfare: Work at the Harper Adams based National Institute of Poultry Husbandry covers a wide range of topics. This includes the importance of feeding with studies on how diet can influence the onset of the disease necrotic enteritis and how feeding yarrow may assist digestion in the broiler chicken. The environmental impact of poultry farming is also of interest with a recent study investigating the effects of hen manure storage temperature on the amount of nitrogen emitted. Contact the author, Dr Paul Rose.
Dietary supplements and the health of dairy cows: Minerals such as Zinc are key components in dairy cow rations and control a range of processes affecting parameters such as milk yield and quality, intake, fertility and aspects of animal health such as lameness and resistance to mastitis. Contact the author, Dr Liam Sinclair.