Livestock Archives - Page 4 of 4

Oct302023 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

DA Explores Seaweed as Affordable Livestock Feed

MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Philippines is embarking on an innovative initiative to reduce the cost of meat production by introducing processed seaweed as a cost-effective alternative fodder for livestock and other farm animals. With the goal of enhancing food security, curbing inflation, and promoting sustainable agriculture, the DA's novel approach aims to tap into the abundant resource of seaweed in the country. DA Undersecretary Deogracias Victor Savellano recently highlighted the untapped potential of seaweed as a valuable and affordable source of animal feed. The Philippines' extensive coastline and marine resources provide an ideal environment for the cultivation and harvest of this underutilized resource. Seaweed is known for its versatility and nut...

Oct302023 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Do Drones Mate with Their Own Queen?

Livestock

The intricate world of honeybee queen mating has long fascinated scientists and beekeepers alike. One of the intriguing questions that arise in this context is whether queen bees ever mate with their own drones. While it might seem counterintuitive, the natural instincts of honeybees work against such inbreeding. In this article, we will delve into the captivating process of honeybee mating, addressing the methods, purposes, and consequences of this vital act in a bee's life. The Mating Ritual Contrary to the territorial battles that queen bees engage in, the mating ritual between a queen and a drone is more about speed and agility than direct confrontation. Drones, the male honeybees, engage in a high-speed chase to catch up with the queen during her mating flight. This chase involv...

Oct272023 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Hog Water Nipples: Types, Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

Livestock, Product Reviews

In the world of hog farming, innovation and efficiency are paramount. Hog farmers are constantly seeking new ways to streamline their operations, reduce labor costs, and ensure the health and well-being of their animals. One such innovation that has made a significant impact in the industry is the hog water nipple. In this article, we will explore what a hog water nipple is, the different types available, the pros and cons of using them, and explore some alternative watering systems. What is a Hog Water Nipple? A hog water nipple, often referred to simply as a "nipple drinker" or "water nipple," is a specialized watering system designed to provide pigs with access to clean and fresh water. These devices are typically composed of a stainless steel or plastic housing that encases a valve m...

Oct272023 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Wooden Beehive vs Plastic Beehive Pros and Cons

Livestock, Product Reviews

Beekeeping has become an increasingly popular hobby in recent years, driven by a growing interest in sustainable agriculture and a desire to support pollinators. Whether you're an experienced beekeeper or just starting out, one crucial decision you'll need to make is the choice between wooden beehives or plastic beehives. Each material has its own set of pros and cons, and this article aims to help you make an informed decision. Wooden Beehives Pros: Natural Aesthetics: Wooden beehives have a timeless and rustic appeal. They blend well with the natural surroundings and can even enhance the charm of your garden or apiary. Many beekeepers appreciate the traditional look of wooden hives. Insulation: Wood has excellent insulation properties. It helps maintain a stable temperature i...

Oct262023 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Exploring Stingless Bee Farming in the Philippines

Livestock

The declining population of pollinators has emerged as a global concern, impacting ecosystems and agricultural production. The apiculture industry faces numerous challenges, notably colony collapse disorder (CCD), attributed to the susceptibility of introduced bee species, Apis mellifera, to pests and diseases. Dr. Cleofas R. Cervancia, President of the Apimondia Regional Commission in Asia, recognizes the need for innovative strategies to revitalize beekeeping in the Philippines. This article explores the promising alternative of stingless bee farming (Tetragonula biroi) and its potential to transform the country's beekeeping industry. Challenges of Conventional Beekeeping The Philippines imports around 300 metric tons of honey annually while local production remains at only about 1...

Oct262023 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Cassava as Livestock and Poultry Feed

Agriculture, Livestock, Poultry

Cassava, known scientifically as Manihot esculenta, has been a staple root crop in the Philippines for centuries, and its uses are as diverse as the nation's rich culture. Locally, it is known by various names like balinghoy, balanghoy, or kamoteng-kahoy, while internationally, it goes by manioc or tapioca. Beyond its role as a human food source, cassava offers various other applications, including animal feed, medicine, alcohol, and even industrial uses such as textile production and biodegradable materials. In this article, we'll explore the untapped potential of cassava as livestock and poultry feed and the various factors that have hindered its widespread adoption in the industry. Cassava's Remarkable Versatility Cassava is prized for its versatility, and its multiple uses make i...

Oct192023 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Analyzing the Income-Generating Potential of Beekeeping

Livestock

Honey, a golden elixir produced by the diligent honeybee, is a remarkable gift from nature. Beyond its delightful taste and natural sweetness, honey has been revered for its numerous health benefits and is a staple in kitchens worldwide. However, beyond its culinary applications, honey holds vast income-generating potential, making beekeeping an attractive venture for those looking to tap into this sweet opportunity. Beekeeping and the Making of Honey The story of honey begins with the extraordinary work of bees. Honeybees are nature's master alchemists, transforming flower nectar into liquid gold. When bees collect nectar from flowers, they store it in their abdomens, forming what is known as the honey stomach. In this remarkable biological process, protein molecules within the hone...

Oct62023 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

The Rabbitry Revolution: Gigi Morris’ Journey from Fine Dining to Farming in Batangas

Livestock

In the quaint town of Padre Garcia, Batangas, a unique rabbitry is thriving under the watchful eyes of Fil-American entrepreneur Gigi Morris. Her journey from the glitzy casinos of Las Vegas to the lush countryside of the Philippines has transformed her into a successful rabbit farmer and a pioneer in providing rabbit meat to fine dining restaurants. An Unconventional Idea Sparks a Business Gigi Morris was miles away from Batangas when the idea for her rabbit farming venture first hopped into her mind. While browsing for rabbit pets for her family's one-hectare farm in Padre Garcia, she encountered a rabbit farm owner from San Antonio, Quezon, who was willing to part with his rabbits for a discounted price. This fortuitous encounter marked the inception of her unique rabbit business....