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Traeger Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Wednesday, January 24th, 2024

Traeger Chicken Tortilla SoupSmoking the chicken for soothing tortilla soup keeps the meat tender and juicy while adding toasty wood-fired flavor. The spice level on this soup is mellow, just a slight tingly warmth, so if you prefer more of a kick, add some cayenne or serve with your favorite hot sauce.

INGREDIENTS:

1 (3 1/2 to 4 lb) chicken, spatchcocked (backbone removed)
1/3 Cup Traeger Spicy Fajita Rub
2 Tablespoon avocado or canola oil, divided
2 ears corn, husks and silks removed
1 red onion, sliced ½-inch thick rounds
1 Teaspoon Kosher salt
1 Teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
4 Clove garlic, minced
2 Tablespoon tomato paste (double concentrated)
8 Cup chicken broth
1 15-oz can black beans, rinsed well and drained

To Serve:

Crispy tortilla strips
1 avocado, diced
1 plum tomato, diced
1/2 Bunch cilantro
Lime wedges
Cotija cheese, crumbled (optional)

STEPS:

1. When ready to cook, preheat the Traeger to 225°F with the lid closed; this should take about 15 minutes

2. Season the underside (bone side) of the spatchcocked chicken with half of the Traeger Spicy Fajita Rub, flip the chicken over and season the skin side with the remaining rub.

INGREDIENTS

  • 1  (3 1/2 to 4 lb) chicken, spatchcocked (backbone removed)

  • 1/3 Cup Traeger Spicy Fajita Rub

3. Insert a leave-in meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone, if possible. Place the chicken skin-side-up directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and smoke for 1 hour.

4. Leaving the chicken on the grates, increase the temperature of the grill to 400°F.

5. While the grill is heating, drizzle the corn and onion slices with the oil and season with kosher salt and pepper on all sides.

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 Tablespoon avocado or canola oil, divided

  • 2  ears corn, husks and silks removed

  • 1  red onion, sliced ½-inch thick rounds

  • 1 Teaspoon Kosher salt

  • 1 Teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper

6. When the grill reaches 400°F, place the onion slices and corn directly on the grill grates next to the chicken. Close the lid and cook for 10 minutes, then flip the onions and rotate the corn. Close the lid and cook until the onions have nice grill marks and are tender.

7. Remove the onions from the grill. Continue cooking the corn and the chicken until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F, about another 10 minutes. Remove the chicken and the corn from the grill (leave the grill on) and let cool slightly.

8. Meanwhile, place a Dutch oven or similar ovenproof pot on the grill grates to preheat for 5 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of oil, the minced garlic, and tomato paste to the pot. Close the lid and cook for 5 minutes, then stir, close the lid and cook until the garlic is fragrant and tomato paste is sizzling, another 3 to 5 minutes.
INGREDIENTS

  • 1 Tablespoon avocado or canola oil, divided

  • 4 Clove garlic, minced

  • 2 Tablespoon tomato paste (double concentrated)

9. Pull the skin off the chicken breast in one or two pieces and reserve it. Shred or chop the meat into bite-size pieces as desired. Slice the corn off the cob and chop the grilled onion.

10. Slowly add 1 cup of broth to the Dutch oven, stirring to distribute the tomato paste. Then add the remaining chicken broth and the chicken skin (it will be removed but it has a lot of seasoning on it that you want in the broth). Close the grill lid and bring to a simmer.

INGREDIENTS

  • 8 Cup chicken broth

11. Once simmering, carefully remove the chicken skin. Add the chicken meat, black beans, corn, and onion to the soup, and stir to combine. Cook until hot, another 10 to 15 minutes.
INGREDIENTS

  • 1  15-oz can black beans, rinsed well and drained

12. Portion the soup into bowls, and top with the tortilla strips, avocado, tomato, cilantro, and cotija cheese if desired. Serve with lime wedges. Enjoy!
INGREDIENTS

  •  Crispy tortilla strips

  • 1  avocado, diced

  • 1  plum tomato, diced

  • 1/2 Bunch cilantro

  •  Lime wedges

  •  Cotija cheese, crumbled (optional)

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Planning Your Garden

Saturday, January 6th, 2024

If you’re looking to grow your own food and enjoy the rewards of a flourishing garden, you’re in the right place. January marks the perfect time of year to start planning and getting everything ready. Whether it’s your first time starting a garden or you’re a seasoned green thumb, there are a few steps you need to take in order to achieve a thriving garden. In this guide, we’ll help you through the essential steps that need to be taken so you can have a successful garden come spring.

Step 1: Decide What to Plant

When it comes to planning your garden, you must first decide on what type of vegetables you would like to grow. Start by deciding what your family enjoys eating and make a list of the produce they love. Next, check which crops are best suited for the climate you live in and what will grow best in your soil type. Consider planting perennial crops that come back year after year, or focus on annual plants that produce food more quickly. Keep in mind that you should space out your plantings to ensure you get fresh vegetables throughout the entire growing season.

Step 2: Choose Your Site

Choosing the right site for your garden is crucial to its success. Look for a location that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. Avoid areas that tend to flood or are too rocky, as this can stunt plant growth. Also, pay attention to nearby trees that may cast shade over your garden bed and rob your plants of sunlight. If you are planting a container garden, make sure it has proper drainage holes to avoid over watering.

Step 3: Prepare the Soil

Soil preparation is essential to having a bountiful harvest. Start by removing any weeds or debris from the site that you have chosen. Next, consider tilling the soil to make it easier for your plants’ roots to grow. Adding organic matter to the soil can also provide necessary nutrients for your plants to thrive. Compost is a natural option for enriching your soil and can be added in the fall or early winter before planting.

Step 4: Planting and Care

It’s now time to get your soil ready and begin planting. Make sure to check the seed packet for the ideal planting time and depth, as well as how far apart the seeds should be spaced. Once planted, regular watering is essential for plants to grow healthy and strong. Consider drip irrigation or a hose with a low-pressure nozzle that can help water the plants at the root level. Regularly fertilizing with organic fertilizers will also keep nutrients flowing to your plants.

Step 5: Pest and Weed Control

Pests and weeds can be a common issue when planting a garden. To avoid problems, consider using organic means to control and keep weeds at bay rather than using toxic herbicides, which can harm beneficial insects and pollinators. Consider using natural pest control methods such as companion planting and crop rotation to help control pests and insects. Also, try using natural pest deterrents like plant oils, insecticidal soaps, and beer and yeast traps.

Now that we’ve walked through the various steps involved in planning your garden, you’ll be well-equipped to get started. Sure, there might be a little hard work involved in the process, but the rewards of a flourishing garden that provides fresh, organic produce are more than worth the effort. Remember, planning is paramount to a successful garden, so take the time to choose your site and plant accordingly, and you’ll be on your way come springtime.

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Preparing Your Livestock for Winter Feeding

Friday, January 5th, 2024

Cattle eating hayWith colder weather on the horizon, many farmers and ranchers are preparing for the winter months. One of the most important things to consider when getting your animals ready for winter is their feed. During this time, hay becomes the most common type of feed for livestock. However, it is essential to ensure that you have enough hay to get your animals through the season. In addition, it is necessary to think about supplementing your hay with other feeds such as grain or grass to keep your animals healthy. We have some essential tips for feeding and nutrition that will help you prepare your livestock for winter.

1) Plan for Adequate Hay Supply

Before winter arrives, farmers and ranchers need to ensure that they have enough hay to meet the demands of their livestock. One of the key challenges in preparing for the winter months is predicting the amount of hay that will be required. To estimate your hay needs, you must consider the number of animals in your herd, their weight, and the duration of the winter months. To increase the amount of hay available, you may want to consider buying hay from other farmers. Purchasing a large quantity of hay can also help cut the cost per bale.

2) Supplement with Other Nutritious Feed

Unfortunately, hay alone may not be enough to provide your animals with the nutrition they need. During winter, your livestock needs an adequate amount of vitamins and minerals. Therefore, it is crucial to supplement their diets with other nutritious feeds. Grain is an excellent source of protein and helps to maintain body heat. However, you must be cautious when feeding grain to avoid overfeeding, which can cause digestive problems. Grass can provide your livestock with essential micronutrients. This means that you should graze your animals throughout the fall season before snow accumulates on the ground.

3) Provide Adequate Water

Water is critical to the health and survival of your livestock, particularly during the winter season. Since animals rely on hay to maintain their body heat, they consume less water, which can lead to dehydration. Therefore, it is essential to provide your animals with fresh, clean water at all times. Water sources should be checked daily to ensure that it is available and unfrozen. You can also consider installing heaters or de-icers for your water sources to keep them from freezing.

4) Monitor Your Livestock

During the winter months, it is essential to keep a close eye on your animals. Checking that they are eating adequately, drinking enough water, and staying warm is crucial. Moreover, monitoring your livestock helps to detect any signs of disease or illness that require vet attention.

5) Prepare Your Barns

As the cold weather sets in, you may want to prepare your barns for your animals’ comfort and safety. Ensure your barns have proper insulation, ventilation, and clean straw or bedding to keep livestock dry and warm. Ensure that all doors and windows are properly secured to keep the cold outside.

Preparing for winter and ensuring that your livestock’s feed and nutritional needs are met may seem overwhelming. However, with the right planning and preparation, farmers and ranchers can help their animals survive the harsh winter months. By incorporating these tips, you can increase your animals’ health and well-being throughout the winter season.

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Tips for Raising Chickens in Winter

Sunday, December 31st, 2023

Raising chickens in winter can be a lot of fun. Some hens love wandering around the yard and their first snow sighting can be quite entertaining. A bird’s thick feathers are a natural protective coat, so most breeds are well-equipped for winter.

Here are a few tips on how to care for chickens in the winter:

1. How to keep chickens warm in winter:

Do not add heat lamps. Chickens, especially cold-tolerant breeds, can withstand winter temperatures without supplemental heat. A chicken’s body temperature is around 106 degrees Fahrenheit, and they have their own protective layer of feathers to keep them warm.

If you feel it is necessary to provide a source of heat, only provide enough heat to raise the temperature a few degrees. The hens will adjust to the cold temperature, but if it is 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the coop and 0 degrees Fahrenheit in the run, birds will not be able to regulate their body temperature.

2. What to feed chickens in winter:

A common myth is to feed oatmeal to birds in the winter. This is not a beneficial treat for chickens. Oats contain some types of fiber that chickens can’t digest which can cause the contents of the digestive tract to thicken. This leads to a reduction in the bird’s ability to digest and absorb nutrients. Greens are also unnecessary. Hens may pick at hay and spread it around, but they are not going to eat it.

Feeding a complete layer feed like Purina® Layena®, Purina® Layena® Plus Omega-3 or Purina® Organic Pellets or Crumbles will provide the necessary nutrition hens need through the winter.

3. Ensure feed and water isn’t frozen.

Consider heated waterers. Feed and water birds more often when it’s below freezing. Energy needs increase in winter. Animals expend a considerable amount of energy to stay warm and will eat more feed. Complete layer feeds include all the energy hens need. The 90/10 rule still applies in winter.

4. Allow exploration.

Birds can tolerate snow, cold air and ice water. There is very little muscle in the lower part of bird legs and feet. The movements are controlled by tendons that stretch from the upper part of the legs down to the toes. \Secondly, the blood entering the lower legs and feet are cooled by the blood returning to the heart. The blood returning is thus warmed by the blood going to the toes. The tissue receives just enough heat to avoid frostbite while also being provided with enough oxygen to keep things functioning.

5. Collect eggs more frequently.

Temperatures below freezing result in frozen eggs. As the egg freezes, the contents expand and will cause the egg to crack.

6. Keep the chicken coop draft free.

But don’t seal it completely. Some air needs to be exchanged to prevent ammonia build up. Open the top vent or higher windows slightly so fresh air can enter and stale air can exit.

7. Keep the chicken coop dry.

Remove any wet spots daily. Provide more bedding than you would in other seasons so birds have a place to burrow and stay cozy.

8. Continue offering activities in the chicken coop.

Hens will spend more time in the coop, so offer enrichment. Logs, sturdy branches or chicken swings can work well and place a Purina® Flock Block® supplement in the coop for a nutritious place to peck.

Visit or call J & N Feed and Seed to get more tips for raising chickens in winter!

Article source: Purina Flock Management

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Holiday Pet Care Tips

Thursday, December 14th, 2023

Dogs in holiday sweatersAs the holidays approach, you might find yourself overwhelmed with shopping, cooking, and traveling plans. With so much going on, it’s easy to overlook your furry friends and their needs. But as a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to keep your pets happy and healthy during the hectic holiday season. Here are some tips to help you make sure your pets are well-fed and taken care of while you’re away.

Hire a Pet Sitter or Ask for Help from a Friend or Family Member
One of the best ways to make sure your pets are well taken care of while you’re away is to hire a pet sitter or ask for help from a family member or friend. A professional pet sitter can check on your pets multiple times a day, feed them, give them water, and let them out for bathroom breaks. They can also provide companionship and playtime to keep your pets happy and engaged. If a pet sitter isn’t in your budget, ask a trusted friend or family member to do pet-sitting for you.

Stick to Their Regular Feeding Schedule
While you’re away, make sure to maintain your pet’s regular feeding schedule. Consistency is essential for keeping your pet happy and healthy. Feed them the same food they eat at home in the same quantity, and make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water. Also, make sure your pet sitter or helper knows about your pet’s feeding pattern.

Provide Your Pet with Plenty of Toys and Accessories
Toys and accessories can help keep your pets happy and entertained. Provide them with toys that they enjoy playing with, including chew toys, puzzle toys, and ball toys. You can also leave your pet with some relaxing music or a cozy blanket to snuggle on, making them feel comfortable and calm while you’re away. Make sure to check on them regularly, even if you are not there personally.

Make Sure Your Pet is Safe and Secure
Keeping your pets safe and secure is essential, especially when you’re not there to supervise them. Make sure your pet sitter or helper knows how to keep your pets safe and secure, including keeping them away from hazards like electrical cords, open flames, and toxic substances. Also, make sure that your pet’s space is secure as well and that they cannot leave their designated area.

Communicate with Your Pet Sitter or Helper
Communication is key to ensuring that your pet is happy and healthy while you’re away. Therefore, make sure you communicate clearly with your pet sitter or helper about your pet’s needs, routines, and health concerns. Leave emergency contact numbers, vet information, and clear instructions to ensure that your pets receive any necessary care.

The holidays can be a hectic time for us pet owners, but with these tips, you can be sure that your pets are well-fed and taken care of while you’re away. By hiring a pet sitter, sticking to your pet’s regular feeding schedule, providing them with plenty of toys and accessories, making sure they are safe and secure, and communicating with your pet sitter and helper, you can ensure that your pet has a happy and healthy holiday season.

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Holiday Pet Safety Tips

Thursday, December 14th, 2023

Puppy Wearing Antlers by Christmas TreeAs the holidays approach, it’s a joyous time for us, but it can be quite stressful for our pets. With colder weather, decorations, and fireworks, there are a lot of things that can make our furry friends feel uneasy. It’s important to take measures to ensure that our pets stay warm, comfortable, and safe during the holiday season. In this guide we will discuss some common concerns pet owners face during the holidays and how to take care of our pets.

Keeping Pets Warm During Cold Weather
The winter season can be harsh for our pets, especially those who are not used to the cold. It’s important to keep your pets warm and comfortable during the winter months. For dogs, consider getting a coat or sweater to keep them cozy. For cats, consider providing them with a warm bed near a heat source or a heated pad. Keep in mind that pets may need more food during colder months to keep warm, so don’t forget to adjust their diet accordingly.

Preventing Pets from Getting into Holiday Decorations and Food
Decorations and holiday food can attract our pets’ attention, but they can also pose a threat to their health. Ribbons, tinsels, and ornaments can easily be ingested by pets, causing digestive problems or even blockages. Avoid using materials that are easily chewed or broken. Keep holiday food away from your pets! Some foods, like chocolate, can be toxic to pets. If you want to give your pet a treat, consider giving them a small amount of pet-friendly food.

Keeping Pets Safe During Fireworks Displays
Fireworks displays can be a source of anxiety for our pets. The loud noises and flashes of light can be overwhelming. If you plan to attend a fireworks display, consider leaving your pets at home. If you’re staying at home, make sure to close all windows and doors and turn on some background noise, like the TV or radio, to help mask the noise. If your pet becomes anxious, try to comfort them, but don’t punish them for their behavior.

Keeping an Eye on Your Pets
During the holidays, it’s important to monitor your pets for signs of stress or illness. Pets can become overwhelmed, anxious, or show signs of distress. Keep an eye on their behavior and make sure they have a place to retreat to if they become overwhelmed. If you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Spend Time with Your Pets
The holidays can be a busy time, but it’s important to make time for your pets. Spending quality time with them can help alleviate their stress and anxiety. Take them for a walk, play with them, or snuggle with them on the couch. Your pets will appreciate the extra attention and love.

The holidays can be a wonderful time for us and our pets, but it’s important to keep in mind their safety and comfort amidst all the festivities. Be sure to follow these tips to keep pets safe and relieve pet stress for both you and your pet.

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Your Guide to Choosing the Right Seed for Your Needs

Sunday, October 1st, 2023

fall seed

Fall is approaching fast and it’s that time of year again to start preparing for your next planting season. At J&N Feed & Seed, we’ve got you covered for all your fall seed needs. We carry over 40 types of seeds, including wheat, oats, barley, assorted ryegrass seeds such as Elbon and Marshall Rye, and additives such as chicory and buck plot mixes. We cater to all types of seeding needs, be it for livestock grazing, wildlife feed plots, or anything else. Not sure what you need? No worries, our experts are always here to help.

Determine What You Need
Before making any purchases, you need to determine what your needs are. You need to ask yourself questions like, what is the soil type in your area? What is the primary use of the land you are planning seed on? What kind of environment and weather conditions are prevalent in your area? Answering these questions is crucial in determining what kind of seed you need. For instance, Marshall rye is more resilient in extreme weather conditions than other types of ryegrass varieties, making it an ideal choice for colder or drier environments.

Choose the Right Type of Seed
After assessing what your needs are, you need to choose the right type of seed. Our seed collection is broad and diverse, so making the right choice is critical. Different types of seed types have different benefits, and that’s why it’s recommended to consult with our experts before making any purchases. For example, wheat is a versatile seed as it can be used for both grazing and hay purposes. Plus, it is hardy and can withstand harsher temperatures, making it ideal for colder climates.

Consider Additives
Sometimes you might have to combine seed types to best serve your needs. J&N Feed & Seed provides additives that can be used to enhance the productivity of your seed. Additives like chicory and buck plot mixes can help to attract deer and other wildlife to your land, making it a prime location for hunting.

Bagged and Bulk Fertilizers
After you’ve determined your seed needs, you need to prepare your soil for planting. Fertilizers are critical in ensuring that your soil has the right nutrients that your seeds need for growth. At J&N Feed and Seed, we provide bagged and bulk fertilizers, and we even offer free fertilizer buggies to assist in transporting your bulk fertilizer purchases.

Delivery Services
For customers who prefer delivery, we offer delivery services. Give us a call at (940) 549-4631.

Choosing the right seed for your needs is critical in ensuring that your planting season yields fruitful and productive results. That’s why it’s essential to consult our experts at J&N Feed & Seed before making any purchases. Our extensive seed collection, as well as our complementary fertilizers, and delivery services, put us at the forefront of providing excellent customer service and satisfaction. At J&N Feed & Seed, we’re dedicated to offering the very best products to our loyal customers, and we’ll continue to serve you, not only in the fall season but all year round.

 

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Three Tips To Help Molting Chickens

Friday, September 22nd, 2023

It’s autumn. Time for comfy sweaters, pumpkin-flavored everything, and… vacation? For backyard chickens across the country, shorter days often signal time for a break. Birds may stop laying eggs, lose old feathers, and grow new ones. This annual vacation from egg laying is called molt.

Molt is driven by season and usually occurs in the fall when the hours of sunlight decrease. For our birds, fall means it’s time to prepare for winter, which requires quality feathers. That’s why hens take a vacation from laying eggs and redirect their energy to regrowing feathers.

 When do chickens molt?

This feather loss phenomenon first happens when birds are approximately 18 months old and then occurs annually. Backyard flock owners should expect about 8 weeks of feather loss and regrowth but could take up to 16 weeks for some birds.

Though the general process is similar, not all molting seasons are created equal.

The onset and length of the molt look different for each bird. How long chickens molt for depends on factors such as age, consumed nutrients, and the environment. You’ll often first notice that feathers are losing their sheen. Hens may then gradually lose a few feathers or it could happen overnight. We’ve noticed that more productive egg-layers and younger hens recover from molt more quickly than older or less productive hens. In any case, proper nutrients and management can help birds through molt.

Three tips for molting chickens

  1. Pack the protein Just like humans, birds need a different diet depending on their current activity or life stage. Protein is the key nutrient to pack in a flock’s diet during molt. The number one nutrient switches from calcium to protein during molt. This is because feathers are made of 80-85 percent protein, whereas eggshells are primarily calcium. When you notice your chickens losing feathers, switch to a complete feed that’s 20 percent protein and includes probiotics, prebiotics, and key vitamins and minerals. Purina® Flock Raiser® chicken feed is a key option. A high-protein complete feed can help hens channel nutrients into feather regrowth and get back to laying eggs.For organic flocks, try switching hens to Purina® Organic Starter-Grower when molting begins in order to maintain organic status and provide a higher level of nutrition they need for feather regrowth.
  2. Keep stress low
    While on vacation, people generally want plenty of comfort and room to relax. It isn’t so different inside the coop during molt. Keep molting chickens comfortable by preventing stress. During molt, the area where the feather shaft meets the skin can be very sensitive, so reduce handling and provide plenty of clean bedding. Offer enough space for your birds to rest and relax in private. For each bird, four square feet inside the coop and 10 square feet outside of the coop can keep them comfortable. In addition, provide access to plenty of fresh, clean water and proper air ventilation. Hydration and ventilation can help keep the backyard coop spa-like for feather regrowth. Avoid introducing new flock members during this time, as adding in new friends and potentially re-shuffling the pecking order could add stress.
  3. Transition back to layer feed
    Once birds are ready to return from vacation and begin producing eggs, it’s time to adjust the nutrient profile to match their energy needs once again. When hens begin laying eggs, transition back to a complete layer feed that matches your goals. Gradually mix the complete layer feed with the high-protein feed over the course of 7 to 10 days. This can help avoid digestive upsets and allows birds to get used to the taste and texture of their new feed. Once they’re back on a complete layer feed and have vibrant new feathers, get ready again for farm fresh eggs for your family.

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11 Tips To Beat Heat Stress in Cattle

Monday, July 17th, 2023

Water, shade, and the right nutrition can help mitigate heat stress in cattle. Read our tips for beat heat stress in cattle and keep your herd cool.Water, shade, and the right nutrition can help mitigate heat stress in cattle.

The weather report says it’s going to be a scorcher, and sure enough – the temperatures start steadily climbing. Cattle start grouping in shady spots. A few cows start panting to stay cool. The flies settle in. And, suddenly, you’ve got a herd struggling with heat stress.

The heat may be unavoidable, but you can take proactive steps to mitigate its impact on your herd. First, let’s look at the dangers of heat stress in cattle.

When temperatures rise

Cattle have sweat glands, but it’s not a very efficient way for them to cool off. Instead, they rely on respiration, or opening their mouths and panting, to help them dissipate heat. When it’s 80 degrees or hotter out, their ability to regulate their own temperature becomes a big challenge. You start to see behavior changes – more time in the shade, less time grazing, and increased water consumption.

To make the heat even more challenging:

  • A cow’s rumen activity naturally increases body heat. Fermentation occurs in the rumen, producing heat as bacteria break down and digest forages.
  • Cattle seek shade to help keep cool. Grouping up in the shade sometimes has the reverse effect and creates a lot of radiant heat between cows. The thermometer might read 90 degrees, but the temperature in the middle of the group could be much hotter.
  • Crowded cattle attract more flies, causing animals to move even closer together to protect themselves.
  • Animals with dark hides have a higher risk of suffering heat stress than those with lighter-colored hides.

Suddenly your herd feels overheated and cattle are less likely to graze.

When grazing stops

Forage is the number one nutrition source for cows on pasture. If they aren’t grazing as much during a heatwave, they’re probably not meeting their cattle nutrition requirements.

When cows don’t get adequate nutrition, they’re at risk of:

  • Losing body condition
  • Taking longer to rebreed
  • Producing less milk for their growing calf
  • Generating a weaker immune response to health challenges
  • Long-term fertility consequences

If cattle are too hot to graze, they may also be too hot to consume mineral at target intake levels. If you’re using a fly control mineral and intakes are below target levels, cows no longer benefit from it because they aren’t getting a full dose of fly control.

Curb heat stress in cattle by planning for proper shade, water and the right nutrition program.

11 hot weather tips for cattle

  1. Ensure access to fresh, clean water. A brood cow drinks 25 to 30 gallons of water on a normal day. She’ll drink even more in hot weather.
  2. Check water tanks often to make sure they are clean and free of contamination (algae, feces, organic material, etc.). You might need additional portable tanks to ensure adequate access.
  3. Place water tanks in shaded areas to keep water cool if possible. Keep waterers several feet away from buildings or fences, so cattle can access water from all sides.
  4. Offer supplements to help cows make the most of their forages. Accuration® Supplements with Intake Modifying Technology® help feed necessary rumen microbes to keep cattle eating and encourages snack eating behavior.
  5. Choose a mineral designed for consistent consumption during hot weather, like Purina® Wind and Rain® Summer Season Mineral.
  6. Control flies to prevent further stress and grazing disturbance. Purina® Wind and Rain® Fly Control Mineral contain Altosid® IGR, an insect growth regulator offering a beneficial mode of action to deliver fly control via cattle nutrition. Consider Purina® Wind and Rain® Fly Control Mineral to stop the horn fly life cycle by preventing pupae from developing into biting, breeding adult flies.
  7. Supply ample shade. Whether it’s provided by trees, a manmade building or portable structures, shade is critical. It might be necessary to move cattle to a pasture with trees or additional shade.
  8. Strategically move rotational grazing herds to fresh pastures in the late afternoon/early evening instead of the morning. Cows will have access to fresh grass when temperatures are beginning to cool and will be more likely to graze.
  9. Work cattle as early in the day as possible when temperatures are lower.
  10. Don’t graze pastures short before moving cows to another. Pastures with taller, thicker grass feel cooler than pastures with short grass where more soil surface is exposed.
  11. Observe cattle frequently and take precautions when hot and humid weather is forecast.

Source: Chris Forcherio, Ph.D.
Beef Research Manager

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The Impact of Heat Stress on Deer

Monday, July 17th, 2023

Heat stress on deer can have metabolic and hormonal effects on ruminants that have significant production impacts including reduced feed intake, growth, milk production, and reproduction.Heat stress on deer can have metabolic and hormonal effects on ruminants that have significant production impacts including reduced feed intake, growth, milk production, and reproduction.1 By understanding heat stress, when it occurs, and its impact on deer can help improve management decisions.

Each species has a specific thermoneutral zone (TNZ) where the animal feels comfortable. At temperatures below and above the TNZ, the metabolic rate increases to keep the body warmer or cooler. Due to the increased metabolic rate, a greater amount of energy is needed and therefore negatively impacts health and productivity parameters. The temperature range for the TNZ is also affected by moisture, wind chill, solar radiation, body condition, and hair coat. In white-tailed deer, the transitional hair coat in the fall offered more protection against temperature extremes than the summer coat and results in a larger TNZ.5Heat stress occurs when the temperature or temperature-humidity indices (a combination of ambient temperature and relative humidity) go above the upper critical temperature of the TNZ. For northern white-tailed deer, the upper critical temperature is 68°F during the summer and 77° in the winter.5 See Table 1 for the TNZ of selected cervid species.

White-tailed deer reduce movement, spend more time lying, seek cooler locations, look for shelter from solar radiation, and pant to dissipate heat during heat stress.5 As panting increases, there is an increased risk of rumen acidosis due to a decrease in rumen buffering capacity through increased exhalation of CO2 and loss of saliva by drooling.1 Elk rarely pant, but sweat to cool off.6 Deer under climatic stress, like heat, can have a negative effect on nutritional status at a time when growth, lactation, and antler production occurs. This reduction in productive activity is partly due to reduced feed intake, altered endocrine status, reduced rumination, nutrient absorption, and increased maintenance requirements.1 This results in reduced energy and nutrient availability. If heat stress occurs and results in a negative energy balance just after fawning, there could be an increased risk of metabolic disorders, health problems, decreased milk yield, and reduced reproductive performance.3 Reduced nutrient intake during lactation can also lead to inefficient nitrogen incorporation into microbial proteins in the rumen and loss of amino acids that were mobilized from skeletal muscle.1 Feed conversion efficiency is reduced in part due to increased energy expended to rid the body of excess heat and reduced digestibility of higher fiber forages.4

The goal is to reduce the potential impact of heat stress to keep animals eating and in positive energy balance. One of those management activities could be to provide additional cover in the form of improved habitat, stands of trees, or artificial shade structures.7 Because water is important to help dissipate heat, make sure deer have access to fresh water near every feeder or every 300 acres.7

Through Purina’s deer research program, a patent-pending mixture of plant extracts, Climate Guard® supplement, was identified that support deer during climatic stress events like heat. Climate Guard® supplement has been added to all Purina® AntlerMax® deer feed, except AntlerMax® Deer Mineral and Extreme Energy™ supplement.

Shop J&N Feed and Seed in Graham, Texas, for Purina Climate Guard Supplement. While you are here, ask us about our feeder filling services.
Source: Michael Schlegel, Ph.D., PAS, Dipl. ACAS-Nutrition
Sr. Nutritionist, Wildlife & Small Ruminant Technical Solutions
Table 1. Thermoneutral zones for selected cervid species
                                                         Thermoneutral Zone
Specie SeasonA Lower Critical
temperature, F		 Upper critical
temperature, F		 Reference
White-tailed deer Sp, Su, Fa
Wn		 41
41		 68
77		 1Holter et al., 1975
1Holter et al., 1975
Black-tailed deer Su
Wn		 53.6
21.2		 80.6
64.4		 2Bunnell, 1990
2Bunnell, 1990
Mule deer Su
Wn		 -4
-4		 77
41		 5Paker & Robins, 1984
5Paker & Robins, 1984
Elk Wn -4 68 6Paker & Robins, 1984
ASp=Spring, Su=Summer, Fa=Fall, Wn=Winter

1Bernabucci, U., N. Lacetera, L.H. Baumgard, R.P. Rhoads, B. Ronchi, and A. Nardone. 2010. Metabolic and hormonal acclimation to heat stress in domesticated ruminants. Animal 4:1167-1183.

2Bunnell, F.L. 1990. Ecology of black-tailed deer. In: Deer and Elk Habitats in Coastal Forests of Southern British Columbia, J.B. Nyberg and D.W. Janz, eds. Research Branch, Ministry of Forests, Province of British Columbia, Victoria, pp 31-63.

3Drackley, J.K. 1999. Biology of dairy cows during the transition period: The final frontier? Journal of Dairy Science. 82:2259-2273.

4Fuquay, J.W. 1981. Heat stress as it affects animal production. Journal of Animal Science. 52:164-174.

5Holter, J.B., W.E. Urban, Jr., H.H. Hayes, H. Silver, and H.R. Skutt. 1975. Ambient temperature effects on physiological traits of white-tailed deer. Canadian Journal of Zoology. 53:679-685.

6Parker, K.L., and C.T. Robbins. 1984. Thermoregulation in mule deer and elk. Canadian Journal of Zoology. 62:1409-1422.

7Schreiber, C. 2015. Research suggest south Texas heat impacts deer productivity. Texas Wildlife. August:50-51.

8Silanikove, N. 2000. Effects of heat stress on the welfare of extensively managed domestic ruminants. Livestock Production Science. 67:1-18.

9Tomeček, J.M. and M. Russell, 2016. Managing heat for wildlife on Texas rangelands. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. EWF=034.  Available at:  https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Managing-Heat-for-Wildlife-on-Texas-Rangelands.pdf

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