Field performance recording of Holstein-Friesian crossbreds in Maharashtra

Abstract

Milk-performance recording was undertaken in 2 432 herds with 13 535 crossbred cows. The data were analysed 10 standardize the procedures in respect of the use of incomplete records, morning and/or evening records, test day yields from different recording interval plans, methods of estimating yields and assessing the need to correct test-day yields for days in milk. The factors were developed for extending the incomplete records to 305-days. Milk yield 305 days estimated from alternate morning and evening recording was nearer to mean of standard lactation, whereas use of either morning or evening records tended to overestimate or underestimate the yields. Companson of test interval method, average yield method and centering date method for estimating lactational yields from test-day records showed superiority of test interval method. The test·day record collected in inclining lind declining phase of lactation required correction for days in milk. The milk. recording interval of 2 months Was adequate 10 estimate yields with less than 5% actual error though shorter intervals would be preferable in field conditions.