Creep grazing is a specialized grazing system designed to give selective access to certain livestock. Based on the reference provided, creep grazing is a form of grazing in which smaller animals are allowed to go (creep) from one pasture to another through openings in a fence. The openings are small enough to restrict the passage of larger animals to the creep pasture.
Understanding Creep Grazing
This technique allows producers to provide young, smaller livestock with access to higher quality forage or supplemental feed without competition from larger, adult animals. The term "creep" refers to the way the smaller animals "creep" through the designated openings.
How Creep Grazing Works
The core principle involves creating a controlled access point:
- Separate Pasture Area: A portion of the pasture, or an adjacent pasture, is designated as the "creep area." This area often contains superior forage or supplemental feed.
- Creep Gates or Openings: The fence separating the main pasture (where adults graze) from the creep area contains openings sized specifically for the smaller animals (like calves or lambs). These openings are too small for the adult animals to pass through.
- Exclusive Access: Only the target younger animals can enter the creep pasture, allowing them to graze on better quality forage or access feed without interference from their mothers or other adults.
Benefits and Practical Applications
Creep grazing is commonly used in livestock operations, particularly with beef cattle and sheep, for several reasons:
- Improved Nutrition: Young animals get access to high-quality forage or feed crucial for rapid growth and development during key stages.
- Faster Weight Gain: Reduced competition and better nutrition can lead to increased weight gain in young animals.
- Reduced Stress: Separating young animals for feeding can reduce stress from competition.
- Efficient Feed Use: Supplemental feed offered in a creep area is consumed only by the target animals, preventing adults from eating it.
Key Components of a Creep Grazing Setup
Setting up a creep grazing system requires a few essential elements:
- Main Pasture: Where the larger animals and their young primarily graze.
- Creep Pasture: The area with the specialized forage or feed intended for the smaller animals.
- Dividing Fence: A physical barrier between the two pastures.
- Creep Openings/Gate: The crucial element – openings in the fence specifically sized to allow only the target smaller animals through.
For example, a calf creep gate might be adjustable to ensure only calves can enter a pasture with lush clover or access a feeder containing calf starter feed, while the cows remain in the main pasture.
Summary Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Core Function | Provides smaller livestock with exclusive access to a specific pasture or feed. |
| Mechanism | Fence openings restricting passage of larger animals. |
| Target Animals | Typically young, still-nursing livestock like calves or lambs. |
| Goal | Enhance growth, nutrition, and performance without adult competition. |
Creep grazing is a valuable management tool for livestock producers looking to optimize the growth and health of young animals by controlling their access to feed resources.
