Publications

Kingshay Tried & Tested Reports have been a part of our research driven resources for many years, helping farmers make informed, evidence-based decisions. Our latest survey focuses on Cow Wearable Monitors – an area where technological innovation and automation are reshaping dairy production. Drawing on data from 62 farms representing a diverse range of farming […]

This Dairy Insight explores the eight most common Cattle Emergencies on UK farms and provides guidance on how to address them promptly and effectively.

This publication explores the link between proper feeding practices and improved fertility in cows, highlighting individual nutritional needs of heifers, fresh cows, and dry cows. Learn how tailored feeding strategies can optimise your herd's reproductive performance.

This Dairy Insight explores the critical role of the dry period and how managing it effectively can significantly impact herd health. Consider when and where to use medicines and vaccines to reduce associated risks of mastitis, in consultation with your vet.

As our climate continues to change, the UK is experiencing more frequent and intense periods of warm weather, a trend that is increasing the risk of heat stress in dairy cows. Shifts in seasonal patterns, higher average temperatures, and prolonged dry spells are becoming a more frequent reality for British dairy farmers.In this Dairy Insight we take a closer look at what causes heat stress in cows, how it affects their health and productivity, and most importantly, what practical steps you can take on your farm to reduce the impact and protect your herd.

A shocking 50.2% of cows leaving the herd do so in their first 3 lactations! With most heifers only paying back their rearing costs in their second or third lactation, this represents a huge waste of money, potential and lost income. And that's without recognising the detrimental impact it has on the public's perception of the dairy industry. Poor longevity will also increase the need for more replacements to be kept in the pipeline, adding to the farm's carbon footprint by having a higher proportion of unproductive animals.

Regardless of system type or grazing aims, with the right mentality it is possible to graze cows whilst milking through robots. In doing so, farmers could realise the benefits of a high-tech system, lower costs by getting more from grazed grass, and benefit cow performance and welfare. The key is to put the right infrastructure in place and focus on grass quality to drive robot visits. This Dairy Insight explores the potential benefits of rethinking your perspective on robots. We discuss the steps involved in adapting your farming system to accommodate grazing alongside an automatic milking system (AMS), outline some possible grazing systems suitable for AMS, and highlight key considerations before initiating your transition to grazing with robots.

There are several vitamins which are essential for dairy cows. The requirements vary according to the stage of lactation and, because cattle do not synthesise these vitamins in sufficient quantities, we must ensure that the ration provides them; this often means that supplementation will be necessary.

Producing good quality forage is key to the profitability of livestock production systems. Preserving forage for later use is expensive and losses can occur at every stage, from field to the time that it is fed. Some are unavoidable, whist others can be reduced by good management. Minimising the losses in nutritional value through good silage making practice will not only save money and produce cheaper milk but also help to maintain the health of your livestock. This is the fifth publication in the 'Milk from Forage' Dairy Insight series, focusing on producing the highest quality grass silage.

Maize can be a very valuable and productive crop, however, are you creating unnecessary environmental risks at maize harvest or consistently not hitting yield targets? If so, it's time to make some changes. Take the time to review and improve your growing strategy or question whether alternative crops may be better suited to your farm.

Data shows the proportion of cows being 'selected' to leave the herd is increasing, compared to 'forced' leavers, highlighting improvements in health and fertility. However, there is still huge scope to reduce the risk of cows exiting the herd early, particularly considering half of cows leaving do so within their first 3 lactations. Ultimately, cows with longer, productive lives spread herd depreciation over more lactations. This also lowers replacement rates and costs, whilst also reducing carbon footprint.

Healthy, fertile cows are the cornerstone to any efficient, productive dairy business. As such, fertility key performance indicators (KPIs) are an essential tool to track herd performance, identify areas for improvement and inform actions. This Dairy Insight explores the costs of infertility and offers some suggested KPIs for both all year round and block calving herds.