Did you know that using a bull with high breeding values for the Youngstock survival index (YSS) is a great way to improve youngstock survival in your herd? Let’s break down the figures.
On average, 4% of Holstein heifers are lost in the late rearing period (1 to 15 months), and the cost per lost heifer is about 405 euros. For a herd with 100 heifers, this equals to a loss of 1,620 euros per year (4 calves).
For a herd with 300 heifers, this equals 4,860 euros (12 calves). One lost red calf costs about 415 euros, and one lost Jersey calf costs 241 euros. Values are based on NAV calculations in the Nordic countries. Improving your herd’s youngstock survival will save you plenty of money!
