Winter livestock feeding: how to manage different animals on a smallholding

Colder weather, shorter days and limited grazing all make winter a challenging time on the smallholding. Getting nutrition right helps every animal stay healthy, productive and in good condition until spring.

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Before you change feed, check your animals' at body condition. Thick coats and fleeces can hide what's really underneath, so always use your hands.

On the 1-5 scale, aim for an average score of 3, not too thin, not too fat. Animals that start winter in good shape will cope better with the cold and make better use of their feed. Always body score your animals before the winter.

Key fact
Condition scoring every three to four weeks keeps you ahead of problems. Small changes are easier to correct than major losses or gains.

WHAT TO FEED HENS IN WINTER
Hens need a complete layers feed all year round, even when egg numbers naturally dip in winter. Organic Layers Pellets provide the protein, vitamins and minerals for feather regrowth and body maintenance. Each hen will eat around 100–150g a day, though this varies with weather and activity. During or after the autumn moult, hens need extra nutritional support to regrow protein-rich feathers. Treats, such as an egg cup full (around 20g) of Organic Mixed Corn for each bird, should be kept for the afternoon so hens fill up on their balanced feed first. Corn also helps to generate heat overnight, but too much can dilute essential nutrients.

Always supply grit for digestion and keep water clean and ice-free. Organic Mixed Corn is ideal, as it includes calcium and grit. In freezing conditions, bring drinkers inside overnight and put them back out in the morning.

Top tip
Hang a cabbage or sprout stalk in the run. It gives hens greens, keeps them busy and reduces bullying.

Key fact
Feathers are more than 80% protein, so a nutrient-rich diet is vital after the moult.

FEEDING SHEEP IN THE COLDER MONTHS