Better outcomes for ‘surplus’ dairy calves

Previously, calves born on dairy farms, but which were not required for rearing to replace animals in
the milking herd (so called ‘surplus’ calves, or ‘non-replacement’ calves) were slaughtered early in life.
However, many factors in both the dairy and beef sectors have changed. New research shows that the
use of female sex-sorted semen on dairy farms has reduced the number of unwanted male calves born,
while the use of beef semen allows production of calves for the dairy-beef market. High beef prices
and efficient procurement through integrated schemes means that the majority of calves are valued,
leading to better welfare outcomes.