Matching of Pasture Growth Rate, Animal Requirements, and Animal Performance to Establish Stocking Policies for Farming Red Deer Under New Zealand Grassland Farming Conditions

Abstract

This paper illustrates a range of pasture growth rates from different locations in New Zealand. The animal feed requirements for breeding hinds, venison, and velvet stags, and the growth rates of the same are discussed. The matching of these basic resources to achieve a profitable farming venture under various stocking policies and farm management practices and conditions are shown. The results illustrate the significance of making the best business decisions based on the biology of the deer and the natural growing features of pasture. The best results are achieved on properties where the pasture supply is available during the peak demand periods such as during lactation. Where pasture supply is inadequate, supplementary feeding or changing the balance of numbers of hinds and stags can significantly benefit the overall results.