Veld condition and supplementary feeding

Autumn is a season where animals are mainly concerned with building up fat stores for winter when food is less available. The period where the veld looks pale, dry, dusty, and in some cases black from being burned is yet to be seen due to the veld still looking lush and green after the above-average rainfall over November – February. Rainfall this year is predicted to be above average well into the second and third quarter of the year due to the El Nina cycle which will result in a cold wet winter ahead. The areas where the animals are likely to hang around will eventually become like desserts, bare dry ground with plenty of dust but for now, they are still covered in lush green grass. The change in season from summer to Autumn and winter is also the harshest time for us, as we need to feed more to supplement the shortage of natural grazing to keep animals from losing condition due to having to eat lower grade nutrition and to keep the badly affected graze areas from becoming worse. Supplementary feeding has been reduced but ongoing during the whole summer. A total of six feeding locations are supplied with food on a bi-weekly basis at present. Feeding days will be increased as required. Each location is spread out to accommodate the variety of species on the estate.