Farmers Almanac: Weaning Calves by the Moon

Jul 25, 2013

Weaning - the practice of separating calves from their mothers’ source of milk is a stressful time for both cows and calves, especially for the calf. Choosing the right time of the month to wean can reduce stress on the animals and help with a smoother transition.

So how does a farmer pick the best time to wean calves? Weaning calves by the moon, using the farmer’s almanac calendar is something that some farmers swear by – it’s certainly something my dad believes. Like a farmer’s tale, it’s suggested that the phases of the moon can influence calves behavior.

There is some variation of the folklore tale, if it is better to wean before or after full moon, but waiting to wean calves until as close to the new moon as possible is the practice. In addition to weaning calves by the moon, those who believe in this farming method would also advocate the same for castration and dehorning.

Several years ago, my dad was having trouble with replacement heifers sucking other cows. In a farmer-to-farmer conversation, with at that time a seasoned cattle producer, my dad received some advice – wean your heifer calves around full moon and you will never have that problem again. My dad, who was desperate to find a solution to his problem, took up the advice and sure enough we have never had the problem occur again.

I don’t claim to be an expert in weaning cattle, so I would advise you consult a veterinarian for best weaning practices for your farming operation. We recently weaned a group of calves - the cows are back to normal and the calves ‘moo-athon’ as I call it seems to be dying out. I will let you know how it goes!

Video: Demco Dual Aguer Grain Carts — Fire Safety Systems, Right or Left-Handed Unload, and More!

Demco's dual auger grain cart is designed for unloading efficiency, operator visibility, and safety in the field.

This dual-auger design features both an unload auger and a floor auger for enhanced grain cleanout and consistent flow, and the 22-inch unload auger is capable of moving up to 600 bushels per minute.

Farmers can also choose between right or left-handed unload options—right-handed unload improves visibility from the tractor cab. A new design allows both vertical and horizontal movement for precise grain placement during unloading.

Another key feature is the built-in fire safety system; a 300-gallon onboard water tank with a hose reel that provides field-ready fire suppression capability.

These dual auger grain carts are available in 1100, 1300, 1500, 1700, and 2200 bushel sizes.