Fall calving cows and creep feed

Ample research proves creep feeding will increase weaning weights, with conversion efficiency ranging from 3 to 20 pounds of feed per pound of added weight gain. A summary of 31 experiments where calves had unlimited access to creep feed shows the average increased calf weaning weight was 58 pounds. However, in commercial cow-calf operations, the value of added weight gain has not historically covered the added feed, labor and equipment needed. The exception would be when feed is exceptionally inexpensive and/or when the value of added weight gain is exceptionally high. As of now, feed is relatively inexpensive and the value of added weaning weight of calves (up to 600 pounds) is worth in excess $4/pound (historically high).

Related: Favor older, earlier-calving bred heifers at auction this fall

When grazing conditions are good, high-quality, abundant forage results in very poor creep feed conversion. Likewise, the greater the plane of maternal nutrition, the poorer the conversion of creep feed to calf gain. In OSU fall-calving experiments (and similar to the situation many of us find ourselves in at present), efficiency of creep feed conversion to calf gain is quite good because native range forage quality is low and cows are in a maintenance to negative energy balance (losing weight). Results have been around 4.5 to 5 pounds creep feed: gain when fall-calving cows are getting around 5 pounds of supplemental feed. However, the more supplement the cow is fed, the poorer the creep feed conversion. Situations that reduce calf nutrient availability (low milk production, low quality forage, overgrazed pastures and thus low forage availability, drought, fall-calving , etc.) improve the efficiency of creep feeding.

An ideal creep feed, designed for early stages of calf life, includes a balanced blend of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and crude protein, allowing for both rumen development and lean tissue growth, plus additional energy (TDN) to help facilitate the growth. Crude protein concentrations should be between 14% and 16%, though protein requirements will vary depending on forage quality and calf performance goals. Rapidly growing, young calves have a high requirement for protein. Young calves have limited rumen capacity and won’t consume large quantities of feed, so nutrient density of the feed is key. Most commercial creep feeds are pelleted for palatability and ease of handling. If mixing your own ration: 1) keep the feed dust-free and well-mixed to prevent sorting, 2) when using liquid ingredients, make sure they do not clog the feeder and, 3) roll or coarsely crack grains (rather than finely grind) to reduce dust and potential for digestive upset. Likewise, including an ionophore at an efficacious dose will enhance feed efficiency.

Related: Buy or develop? Weighing the true cost of replacement heifers

Over-conditioned calves that are marketed at weaning can lead to discounts. The longer calves are exposed to unlimited creep consumption and the lower the forage quality, the more they want to eat. If calves are fed free choice creep for 90 days or longer, there is a risk of over-conditioning. A high quality, limit fed creep feed now could be an effective bridge to the cool season grass you expect to see later.

Managing your cattle operation as a business enterprise should always be based on economics. Evaluating the current cost of inputs versus the value those inputs create is the only logical way to accurately assess profit potential.

Related: Getting past the bawl

References: Creep Feeding Beef Calves: Profit or Expense? | UNL Beef | Nebraska

Dave Lalman, OSU Extension beef cattle specialist, discusses the pros and cons of creep feeding and has advice on how to determine whether this type of management will be cost-effective for your operation on SunUpTV from August 9, 2025. Smart Ranching: Is Creep Feeding Right for Your Operation? 🤠