Do you know why these cows are so excited? Surprisingly, it’s not my cinematography skills (apologies) but the prospect of a wonderful meal of luscious green rape.
We planted the rape crop on November 19 to provide some quick, high energy, high protein food for the cows during summer. It was done at low cost and with the intention of grazing it off as soon as the caterpillars launched an attack because I don’t have the stomach for chemical warfare on farm.
With clouds of white butterflies hovering over the crop, I decided today was the day. We sectioned off a small part of the crop with a temporary electric fence and let the cows in for a belated Christmas feast. Really, it was more of an appetizer because you have to make sure cows don’t gorge themselves on brassicas to prevent the dreadful kale anemia.
Delicioso!
The Milk Maid Marian 
What is kale anaemia Marion?
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Good question – thanks Lisa – because most dairy farmers associate an overdose of brassica with the more common nitrate poisoning but last year I had a very painful introduction to kale anaemia. I think it deserves a post of its own!
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