[Experiences with early weaning of calves in Central America].

This study presents a review of traditional feed calves systems used in Central American specialized dairy farms. The systems discussed are considered costly, due to the high quantity of milk and concentrate required, besides causing shortage of milk for human consumption. The early weaning calf system developed by INCAP is also discussed, as well as its implementation with slight modifications oriented towards the application of research findings to achieve a reduction of the milk volume commonly used in the traditional rearing system. The development of appropriate concentrate formulations for animals of that age, using local feed ingredients, is also presented.