Groundnut haulms based feeding regimens for calves

A feeding experiment was conducted on eighteen Gir calves (three groups each, consisting of three male and three female animals) to evaluate incorporation of groundnut haulms at 20% (T1), 30%(T2) and 40% (T3) in their rations in a completely randomised design. Average gain was 443.5, 464 and 497g/d, in T1, T2 and T3 groups, respectively. Biometrical differences were also non significant. Dry matter intake was not affected significantly, indicating similar palatability and acceptability, at all the levels of inclusion of groundnut haulms in the rations. DCP and TDN efficiencies and cost of feeding per kg gain were similar amongst the groups. The results indicated that groundnut haulms could be incoiporated up to 40% in the rations of Gir calves without any adverse effect on the health of animals.