The Effect of Number of Daily Milkings upon Persistency of Milk Production

The effect of frequency of milking upon persistency of milk production was studied by selecting 364 Holstein-Friesian A.R. cows, each having 2 records meeting certain conditions. These cows were then paired so that the effect of age, individuality, and herd environment were balanced so far as possible. The prime variable affecting milk production remaining in this type of analysis is frequency of milking. It is concluded that: Persistency measured by actual rate of decline (slope) is not affected by frequency of milking. If a proportional measure of persistency is used then persistency is increased by more frequent milking. The decline in milk yield from the third to the ninth month is best considered a straight line relationship.