Abstract

Low winter temperatures, high rainfall and high incidences of poor draining soils in Southland combine to created potential problems with winter "pugging" and soiled pastures by red deer weaners. Four wintering options presently exist for weaners in this region; pasture grazing, winter brassica grazing, outdoor enclosures and indoor enclosures. While pasture wintering is still the most common system used, the other options are becoming increasingly popular to mitigate against pasture/soil damage. This review contrasts these various options, particularly with respect to outdoor and indoor enclosures, and highlights recommendations for successful adoption of these systems.

D, Lawrence

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production, Volume 63, Queenstown, 229-232, 2003