Beef SAQ's Q&A.docx

Beef SAQ's What percentage of beef production is accounted for by suckler herd animals in Ireland? ANSWER: 25-30% What is the daily live weight gain (LWG) for Spring Born Suckler calves? ANSWER: 0.8-1kg/day What is the floor space required for weanlings in beef production? ANSWER: 1.4 m² What...

Beef SAQ's What percentage of beef production is accounted for by suckler herd animals in Ireland? ANSWER: 25-30% What is the daily live weight gain (LWG) for Spring Born Suckler calves? ANSWER: 0.8-1kg/day What is the floor space required for weanlings in beef production? ANSWER: 1.4 m² What is a key difference in growth rates between bulls and steers? ANSWER: Bulls have faster growth rates, while steers grow more slowly due to the absence of testosterone. What weight do Autumn Born Suckler calves typically have at birth? ANSWER: 45kg How does the EUROP system grade carcass quality? ANSWER: The EUROP system grades carcass quality from E (best) to P (worst) based on several factors. What type of calves are suitable for the continental market, particularly for veal production? ANSWER: Friesen calves What is the target weight at slaughter for a heifer? ANSWER: The target weight at slaughter for a heifer is 450kg. What factors determine carcass quality grading? ANSWER: Carcass quality grading is determined by length, shape, % fat, and meat content. What impact does castration have on beef production? ANSWER: Castration inhibits testosterone production, thus promoting growth in steers. What is the target weight at slaughter for a bull? ANSWER: The target weight at slaughter for a bull is 750kg. What is one significant aspect of a notifiable disease? ANSWER: It must be reported to the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine. Define hybrid vigour in the context of breeding. ANSWER: Hybrid vigour refers to the improved biological qualities seen in offspring from genetically diverse parents. List two advantages of selecting a stock bull for breeding. ANSWER: Proven fertility and known genetic traits. What is one of the key factors for achieving a high conception rate in breeding? ANSWER: Optimal timing of insemination. Why are biosecurity measures essential in livestock farming? ANSWER: They help to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases. What is the recommended feeding method for calves when introducing whole milk or powdered milk? ANSWER: Introduce the milk gradually over 3-4 days and feed about 10% of the calf\'s body weight per day. How should healthy calves be handled upon arrival to the farm? ANSWER: They must be handled very carefully to reduce stress and ensure their well-being. What is the significance of feeding colostrum to calves? ANSWER: Colostrum provides essential antibodies and nutrients for the calf\'s immune system and overall health. How should calves be weaned onto a new diet after purchasing them? ANSWER: Calves should be gently transitioned to their new diet, avoiding abrupt changes. What factors must be taken into account to produce a quality calf in a beef system? ANSWER: Several factors, including health management, nutrition, and genetics, must be considered. What are the primary physical characteristics that differentiate beef breeds from dairy breeds? ANSWER: Beef breeds typically have wider shoulders and hindquarters, a short and wide head, and a well-fleshed back, whereas dairy breeds have narrow shoulders and hindquarters, a long and narrow head, and a thin back. List two categories of beef breeds and provide one example for each. ANSWER: The two categories are Continental Beef Breeds and British Beef Breeds; an example of a Continental breed is Charolais, and an example of a British breed is Angus. Define conformation in the context of beef cattle. ANSWER: Conformation refers to the shape of the animal and specifically the distribution of muscle in the body. What are the two main beef production systems? ANSWER: The two main beef production systems include cow-calf operations and feedlot finishing.