rearing wagyu
Welcome to icknieldfarm
Icknield Farm – Calf Weaning Specialists | Midlands, UK
Icknield Farm is a working farm based in the Midlands, specialising in calf weaning. We provide low-stress, efficient weaning solutions that help calves grow stronger and stay healthier during a crucial stage of development.
Using proven methods in advanced technology weaning, we reduce stress, prevent weight loss, and improve long-term herd performance. Our focus is solely on calf weaning, making us a reliable partner for cattle producers looking for consistent, practical results.
rearing - our process
Nutritional Management
Milk Feeding - Automatic
At Icknield Farm, we're always exploring new ways to improve animal welfare, labour efficiency, and long-term productivity. One innovation leading the way in modern calf rearing is the Holm & Laue automatic calf feeding system—and we believe it's worth our attention.
Why Automatic Feeding?
Traditionally, calf feeding is labour-intensive and prone to inconsistency. With auto feeding, we can:
✅ Ensure consistent nutrition
✅ Feed on-demand according to each calf’s individual needs
✅ Reduce labour time and stress for both animals and staff
✅ Improve growth rates, health, and welfare
Holm & Laue, a German innovator in calf technology, has developed one of the most advanced computer-controlled feeding stations for calves. Here's what makes it special:
- Individual Calf ID: Each calf is recognised via RFID tag, allowing personalised feeding plans.
- Smart Mixing Unit: Precisely mixes milk replacer or whole milk to ideal temperature and concentration.
- Data Tracking: Monitors intake, drinking speed, and behaviour—early alerts for potential health issues.
- Gradual Weaning: Automatically reduces milk over time based on intake and age, easing the transition.
Real Benefits We've Seen
Since integrating Holm & Laue technology, many farms have reported:
- Higher daily live weight gains
- Less risk of digestive upsets due to frequent, smaller meals
- Labour savings
- Better management decisions thanks to real-time data on each calf
For breeds like Wagyu, which require slow, steady development and low-stress environments, automated feeding systems are especially beneficial. Precision, hygiene, and consistency are key to setting them up for elite marbling potential later in life.
“The Holm & Laue system has revolutionised our calf rearing. It’s like having an extra set of hands—only more accurate and tireless.”
— Icknield farm.
Introduction of Calf Starter
From two weeks onwards, high-quality calf starter (16–18% protein) is offered ad lib. This helps rumen development and prepares calves for weaning.
- Use highly palatable and textured starter feeds.
- Encourage intake by keeping feed fresh and in clean troughs.
Water Access
Fresh, clean water is available at all times. Water intake is critical for rumen development and feed digestion.