Batch management diversity in suckling herds

Abstract

Batch management practices are analyzed in 32 Limousine cattle herds. Five criteria summarizing these practices are studied on a yearly scale : average number of simultaneous batches, total number of batches throughout the year, average size of batches, number of batching modifications (number and/or composition of batches), number of transient batches (< 2 months). Three types of farms are identified corresponding to different levels of batching complexity, which had no link to the herd size. Differences in batching management are partly explained by the structural design of the farms, such as the field pattern, housing system and available working force, but also seem to be connected with the managerial practices of the farmer. There is no effect of the batching complexity level on calving intervals.