The ICBF congenital defect survey continues to collect valuable data regarding the incidence of abnormalities in calves at birth. Over the past 10 years, almost 600 cases of congenital defects have been reported by farmers via the ICBF survey. Further research is actively being conducted on the most common abnormalities which include intestinal atresia (blocked intestine), multiple defects (at least two defects in the same animal) and tail abnormalities (no tail, short tails, deformed tails).
If you notice a calf with any sort of defect or deformity, please record this through the ICBF congenital defect survey. Please use the button below to access the survey.
In addition to reporting the defect, you will have the option to forward on a photo/video of the deformity which is very helpful in identifying the defect. By reporting these cases, farmers are helping the ICBF to identify, monitor, and manage genetic defects segregating in the Irish cattle population. If you have any questions in relation to the defect survey, please contact 023-8820452 or email [email protected].