The overarching aim of the project "MUKAMS" is to develop a sustainable concept for mother-bonded calf rearing that benefits both cows and calves, combining high standards of animal welfare, a natural husbandry system and modern technology (milking robots, selection gates, animal recognition, etc.). As part of the project, a farm in the canton of Lucerne equipped with a milking robot will be supported during its transition to mother-bonded calf rearing.
In the first year of the project, the calves are separated from their mothers shortly after birth, as is standard practice. In the second and third years, the calves are then left with their mothers for at least 16 weeks and weaned gradually. The behaviour of the cows, the interactions between cows and calves, milking performance and calf health are recorded. Particular attention is being paid to the stress experienced by the cows following early separation from their calves or during prolonged contact with them. In addition, the farm’s economic performance before and after the transition is being documented. The practical findings from the project will be incorporated into advisory services for interested farms. The findings on animal behaviour will be published in scientific journals.
Project partner
