What is the primary goal of the winter diet for a traditionally managed Welsh Black herd emphasizing slow growth?
Answer
Maintenance, rather than aggressive fattening
For a Welsh Black herd managed traditionally, where the emphasis is placed on developing hardiness and slow growth rather than rapid finishing, the winter feeding regimen centers on maintenance. The primary objective during winter is to ensure the animals maintain their body condition throughout the period when forage quality and quantity diminish, utilizing good quality hay. Aggressive fattening is not the goal; rather, the focus is sustaining health and condition until grass growth resumes. Only young or very old stock might receive targeted boosts to prevent condition loss, but the overall dietary strategy remains focused on maintenance energy levels.
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