{"href":"https://api.simplecast.com/oembed?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkite-consulting.simplecast.com%2Fepisodes%2Fep-303-7f5_lfvP","width":444,"version":"1.0","type":"rich","title":"Dairy Under Pressure: Managing Heat Stress This Summer","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_url":"https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/d36d5388-805a-4405-8441-d48a9ae3d5e5/730bdcfc-ffe6-4e18-b8be-7fed6b796b6e/kite-podcast-no-year.jpg","thumbnail_height":300,"provider_url":"https://simplecast.com","provider_name":"Simplecast","html":"","height":200,"description":"With dry weather and repeated heatwaves creating challenging conditions across the UK, Episode 303 of the Kite Podcast focuses on the growing impact of heat stress on dairy cows and what farmers can do to minimise its effects. Hosts Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Charlotte Ward, Technical Manager at Asterra, and Kite Consultant Paul Macer to explore how high temperatures and humidity affect cow health, fertility, feed intake and milk production. The discussion covers the key signs of heat stress, why even moderate UK summer temperatures can present risks, and the management and nutritional strategies that can help keep cows comfortable and productive. The episode also examines the longer-term consequences of heat stress, including impacts on fertility, future milk volumes and overall farm profitability, with losses estimated at up to £128 per cow annually. The team also assesses the effect of this summer's weather on forage production, maize crops and winter feed planning, sharing practical advice to help farmers prepare for the months ahead. We also have insights from dairy market analyst Chris Walkland, who reports on the current state of milk volumes across Europe."}