Soya Bean Meal and Starea Blocks as Protein Supplements for Gestating Beef Cows on Weathered Range

Abstract

Fifty-two pregnant Hereford and Angus cows, divided according to weight and age into two equal groups, were compared as to their weight changes when grazed on weathered range and fed either soya bean or Starea blocks for 80 days. Weight changes were similar for cows on both protein supplements. As the trials progressed, consumption of Starea supplement declined; that of soya bean meal block remained constant. Cows fed Starea blocks had higher rebreeding rates than did those fed soya meal and their calves (when weaned) weighed more, though differences were not statistically significant.