A researcher says the study will provide insights into the overall performance and economic viability of different rearing methods for the New Zealand dairy industry. Photo: Supplied/Massey University
Are dairy calves better off being with their mothers or being reared by people? That is the question researchers at Massey University are working to answer.
Researchers from Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University have began a three-year pilot study where they will compare the two and look at the impact on the calves welfare, growth rates and production once they are fully grown.
It is common practice in the dairy industry for calves to be separated from their mothers shortly after birth to maximise milk for commercial production.
The calves are then reared artificially, using whole milk or milk powder.
Dr Natalia Martín, from the university's School of Agriculture and Environment, said artificial rearing of calves came with increased costs to farmers, potential negative impacts on the calves' early-stage growth and could sometimes affect longer term health.
"The artificially-reared calves tend to be smaller, which may limit their production when they enter the milking herd."
Allowing the calves to remain with their mothers could improve conditions for calves and cows, providing enhanced calf growth rates early in life, Dr Martin said.
"But despite these potential advantages, little research has been done within Aotearoa pasture-based dairy systems," she said.
"The pilot study aims to fill these knowledge gaps by examining the growth, development and behaviour of artificially-reared calves versus those suckling from their mothers."
The study would also explore the economic implications for the dairy farm in the short and long term.
"Understanding the trade-offs between milk production calf growth, behaviour and welfare will provide valuable insights into the overall performance and economic viability of different rearing methods for the New Zealand dairy industry," Dr Martin said.