Use of licks for grazing livestock is still a relatively common practice, but how much benefit do ruminant animals really derive from their use? Several reasons are commonly cited for their use; however, these reasons are either not valid at all, or there are far more efficient ways of achieving improvements in animal health and performance than by providing blocks or licks.

This Primefact discusses:

• the need for salt;
• stock licking soils;
• which minerals and vitamins ruminants usually need;
• animals will eat what they need;
• prevention of diseases;
• provision of energy and protein.