SAWDUST FOR ANIMAL FEEDS
Sawdust contains 50 to 60% cellulose and about 30% lignin. Cellulose is an important component in animal feeds as a source of energy while lignin acts as a barrier to the digestibility of cellulose. Thus, the animals can hardly digest the sawdust. The lignin can be removed or reduced by first treating the sawdust before it is fed to the animals.
Raw materials:
Sawdust, nitric acid, sodium hydroxide
PRESERVED COLOSTRUM CAN REPLACE WHOLE MILK
Based on research findings conducted by PCARRD-DOST and UP at Los Baños, colostrum, a dark yellow mammary secretion which precedes normal milk flow, can be preserved to totally replace whole milk in the diet of nursing calves. Replaced whole milk can then be processed for human consumption. Compared to whole milk colostrum contains a higher amount of total solids, protein, ash, Vitamin A
and riboflavin. More importantly, it carries with it the blood serum, notably immunoglobulins and serum proteins, that gives the immunity to various diseases. A nursing cow produces colostrum for 3 to 5 days after delivery more than what its calf can ordinarily consume within that period. Unfortunately, the extra colostrum cannot be sold for human consumption because of its laxative effect. Freezing is the most effective method of storing colostrum as far as preventing the breakdown of milk fat, protein and total solids and maintaining the quality of fresh colostrum are concerned. Fresh colostrum has a sweet fresh odor, dark yellow color, smooth consistency and pH of about 6.
Source: Phil. Farmer’s Journal June 1992
DUCK BREEDING
For efficient and productive duck breeding operation, consider the following tips recommended by experts from the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Resources Research in Los Baños, Laguna.
1. Maintain the proper ratio of male to female ducks in a breeding shed or kamalig. Put in one drake for every five to 10 female ducks. Keep extra drakes in a separate shed in case some male breeders die of diseases or become unproductive.
2. The drakes can be distinguished from the females by their voice and appearance. Females `quack’ while drakes provide a hissing sound. Drakes have curly tail features.
3. If possible, the drakes should be one month older than the female ducks. This is to ensure that the males are ready for mating during the breeding season.
4. Choose drakes and females alike with well-developed bodies and good conformation. They should be healthy, have a good set of feathers and with keen, alert eyes. Do not select those that are obviously sickly and thin.
Source: Phil. Farmer’s Journal March 1981
