Down on the Farm

SPRING AT JIMMY'S FARM IN THE 'NAKI'

Things have been flat out since I last talked to you all.

Most of my cows have had their calves and the weather has been reasonably warm and mild here in Taranaki - the grass is growing and the milk is flowing.

How are your school calves and lambs coming on?

Calf and Lamb Days are nearly about to start and then the A&P shows will be all go too!

Here are some handy hints for before and during show day.

• Lamb Calling: Practise calling your lamb every time you feed it - and make sure you do the feeding and caring (its embarrassing when the lamb goes running over to mum on pet day).
• Picking your Calf: Did you know that black calves have less hair than white calves? Handy to know when picking your calf (might save some brushing).
• Leading: Lead your calf and lamb every day from the day you pick it.(dont leave it til the last week!!)
• Grooming: If your calf is a messy drinker - wash & wipe around its mouth after each feed (sometimes the dried milk can make the hair fall out).
• The Big Day:Clean your halter & lead, eyes, nose, mouth, under the tail, around her udder, eartags and ears (inside the ear as well - earwax urrgh!)
• Handling: Stay calm & relaxed - talk to your calf or lamb they can get nervous too! Your reassuring voice and stroking hand will help you both have a great day. 

GOOD LUCK - Hope there's some ribbons & trophies coming your way.

Send AgriKidsNZ crew some photos and they will put them in the magazine and on this website.

See you all later.

Jimmy