This is according to Dr Francois van der Vyver, Technical Manager of National Ruminants at Nutri Feeds. 

See PODCAST below

Ruminants include sheep, goats and cattle. 

In a presentational video by Agri Gauteng, Van der Vyver explains that natural grazing should form the basic feed source for any ruminant system.

He explains that there are four different veld types in South Africa – sweet-, sour-, mixed- and Karoo shrub veld. These four veld types are all characterised by a phosphorous deficiency which is typical for Southern Africa.

When one looks at natural grazing within South Africa, one would have to split it between the different seasons, says Van der Vyver. “We know that in summer, specifically early summer, the grazing is of a very high nutrient quality - especially for the sour veld areas… Sweet veld usually maintains its nutrient value much better. [However], phosphorous deficiency, also known as Pica, is a problem throughout Southern Africa, as well as calcium in certain areas, but in most cases calcium is sufficient; sodium a little bit low and then magnesium [and] potassium can be area dependent – but mostly it is sufficient.”

In terms of winter, Van der Vyver says this period tends to be more challenging as protein and energy becomes deficient which therefore requires to be supplemented.

Furthermore, Van der Vyver stresses that the veld should be matched to the animal with the appropriate supplement to provide for efficient nutrient intake.

Stay tuned tomorrow morning on the Agri Hour for part two of this insert where Van der Vyver will continue the discussion on complementary supplementation.

OFM News