HERFS/AUTUMN BONUS TYDSKRIF 2026

period. The lactating ewe should maintain a BCS of at least 3 during this phase, but a higher BCS will be beneficial. A management method during this period can be to divide the ewes into groups according to the number of lambs they have suckling. When there are groups, the producer can apply precision feeding in the different groups and be more cost-effective in this manner. To refer to the weaning phase above, creep feed is not negotiable for a high- producing goat business to be profitable. Young lambs have an unmatchable conversion ratio, and producers should take advantage of that during the creep phase while these lambs are suckling. Lambs that receive creep feed will handle weaning a lot better and will ensure higher post-weaning growth. Conclusion In the evolving landscape of goat farming, producers who embrace a scientific, data- driven approach will consistently outperform those who rely solely on tradition or outdated methods. Success hinges on setting clear production goals, maintaining optimal body condition scores, and strategically managing each phase of the production cycle with precision feeding and proper supplementation. By investing in the development of replacement ewes, monitoring economic indicators, and prioritising animal health and nutrition with the help of the De Heus SFOS concept, farmers can unlock higher lambing rates, improved growth, and ultimately, greater profitability. Setting the benchmark in goat farming is not just about producing more; it’s about producing smarter, with sustainability and efficiency at the forefront. Should you requiremore information relating to achieving excellence through phase feeding, please contact your nearest De Heus technical specialist – https://www. deheus.co.za/meet-our-team/. www.deheus.co.za | 031 785 1575 | infosa@deheus.com Phase Supplementary feed intake/ animal per day* Product Creep feed Ad libitum RumiComplete Ewe and Lamb Creep (V24945) Weaning up to first mating ±400 g to 500 g RumiComplete Ewe and Lamb Creep (V24945) or RumiComplete RamBooster (V24936) Flush feeding ±400 g to 450 g RumiLick EweBooster (V24947) or RumiCom- plete RamBooster (V24936) Early gestation (day 0–30) ±250 g to 350 g RumiLick EweBooster (V24947) or RumiCom- plete Alpha Pellets (V24933) Mid-gestation (day 30–90) ±250 g to 350 g RumiLick EweBooster (V24947) or RumiCom- plete Alpha Pellets (V24933) Late gestation (day 90–155) Build up from ± 450 g to 1 000 g at lambing RumiComplete Ewe and Lamb Creep (V24945) Lactation 1 000 g–1 200 g RumiComplete Ewe and Lamb Creep (V24945) Table 3: Supplementary feed intakes **These recommendations may vary depending on the BCS of the animals and the quality of veld/roughage available. www.agribonus.co.za Herfs/Autumn 2026 BONUS 51