Posted by GoatWorld on October 05, 2002 at 18:55:02:
In Reply to: Milk reduction posted by Kari on October 04, 2002 at 20:15:44:
Hi Kari,
I can't remember which breed of goats you have but it could be that they are beginning to dry up. The cold weather will definitely drop milk production somewhat but I would be more likely to think that they are drying. When I was milking Holsteins, the cold snaps would decrease production quite a bit.
From what I have seen in "lactation averages" the first two months are where you'll see the greatest production with a decrease in the third month. From there it goes downhill until dry in the tenth month. Some does (depending upon breed) won't make it the entire ten months.
One thing about cold snaps though - it will start your does cycling.
Best regards,
Gary