TDK conference 2016

This thesis is a study of twin calving in the Holstein Friesian cattle breed. The presence

of twin calving in the Holstein Friesian cattle breed is between 3-5%.

The author gives an overview of reproductive performances and economic consequences

of twin calving. Firstly, she is focusing on different reproductive performances that are

characteristic in cows before calving.

The author examined the data of a Hungarian large-scale dairy operation according to

single and twin calving. There was no proven difference found between the two cow

groups in regards to the age at first breeding, the age at first conception or the age at first

calving, as well as in the calving to service intervals before the actual calving.

But the length of open days was significantly shorter in twinning cows than in cows with

a single calf. Furthermore, their gestation period and calving interval were also

significantly shorter and more desirable.

All results suggest that twin-calving cows in the period prior to calving were in better

health, physical condition and reproductive status at conception, which resulted in an

earlier, successful twin calving.

In subsequent research, it would be reasonable to confirm the results by use of milk

production and condition scores of cows.