OC9Effect of Melatonin Implants in Guirra Ewes

In extensive systems, beef cows should be continuously with their calves to optimise pasture use but this practice can lengthen post-partum interval (PPI). A study was conducted to determine the influence of suckling frequency on Parda de Montaña cow-calf performance when cows are fed 70% energy requirements during lactation (outdoor winter conditions simulation). Thirty-six autumn-calving cows with similar body condition at calving (2.57) were assigned to three suckling systems [ ad libitum (AL), twice (2D) or once daily (1D) for 30 min]. Blood samples were collected twice a week to analyse progesterone concentrations by RIA. Cows lost similar weight until start of mating period (day 52 post-partum; −0.583, –0.513, –0.520 kg/day in AL, 2D and 1D). Standard milk yield was higher in AL than the rest (8.9, 6.2, 7.0 kg; p < 0.05), which was reflected on greater calf gain (0.895, 0.752, 0.676 kg/day; p < 0.05) and larger cow weight loss within 90 days post-partum in this treatment (–0.345, –0.188, –0.083 kg/day; p < 0.05). Suckling system did not affect either PPI (69.6, 89.1, 65.5 days) or cows cycling within 90 days post-partum (55, 46, 58%), which may compromise the target calving interval. In Parda de Montaña breed fed moderately pre-calving and undernourished during lactation, restricted suckling did not favour ovarian activity resumption, but post-partum subnutrition delayed about 40 days PPI observed in similar body condition at calving and calf management (Sanz et al., 2003; Anim Reprod Sci 79: 57–69)