Cow-Calf Certification Practice Exam

Creep feeding significantly reduces milk consumption by beef calves. What is the truthfulness of this statement?

1. True

2. False

3. Not Applicable

4. Partially True

The correct answer is: True

Creep feeding is a management practice where supplemental feed is provided to calves, typically designed to allow them to consume feed while preventing access to the mothers. The statement highlights that creep feeding significantly reduces milk consumption by beef calves, which is correct because as calves begin to consume more high-energy supplemental feed, they will naturally rely less on their mother's milk for nutrition. This occurs because the feed typically provided through creep feeding satisfies some of the calves' nutritional needs, such as energy and protein. As calves become accustomed to eating the creep feed, their milk intake diminishes because they are consuming an alternative source of nutrients. This shift in dietary habits not only affects the calves' growth rates but can also influence the overall milk production of the dam. In essence, creeping feeding alters the nutritional dynamics in the early life stages of beef calves, aligning with the truthfulness of the statement that milk consumption is indeed significantly reduced as a result.