A key reason is that animals on pasture have the opportunity to select more digestible feed or feed components. The first growth, in particular, offers this opportunity for feed selection to a far greater extent than subsequent growths due to its high stem content. Accordingly, Manusch et al. (1993) observed a clear advantage of pasture grazing, especially during the first growth. This advantage was not as pronounced in subsequent growths. However, experiences and results from the research project BAL 12 01/98 (Influence of Pasture or Barn Housing on Green Forage Intake) also showed that climatic effects (especially high daytime temperatures) influence the feed intake of grazing cows. This results in fluctuations in nutrient supply, milk yield, and milk components, leading to negative economic outcomes. This fact is one of the reasons why pasture grazing of dairy cows is declining. One way to reduce the negative effects of excessively high daytime temperatures on feed intake could be night grazing.
The aim of the project was to investigate the factors influencing the green fodder intake of dairy cows on day or night pasture. The study sought to determine whether night grazing, compared to day grazing, resulted in improved and more consistent feed intake. To allow for a comparison between day and night grazing and green fodder feeding in barns, one-third of the animals were also kept in barns and provided with green fodder accordingly. The effects on grazing behavior were also examined.
