![]() ![]() This also leaves enough time to secure replacements if injury occurs prior to turnout. It is beneficial that bulls to be combined in multi-sire pastures are penned together for at least a few weeks prior to turnout to allow time for a pecking order to be established. Bulls past the age of six are more likely to breakdown. They need be sound, fit, and athletic to cover terrain and settle cows. Remember there is normal “prime of life “ for breeding bull. Mature bulls normally should be expected to cover 25 to 35 cows per season. While a two-year-old bull could be expected to cover up to 25 cows. An 18 month old bull should be able to settle 18 or 19 cows. For example, a bull that is 12 months old should be able to cover about 12 cows in his first breeding season. How do we get more cows settled earlier in the breeding season? By having adequate bull power on hand to get cows pregnant.Ĭan be answered with another question: How many cows should I expect my bull to cover? Depending on the age of your bull or bulls, and assuming bulls have passed a Breeding Soundness Examination (BSE), the general rule of thumb is to place about as many cows/heifers with a young bull as his age in months. In addition, more efficient cow supplementation and effective herd health programs are a product of a short breeding season. Spread over several cows the losses can grow quickly. The extra 21 days until the next heat cycle translates into a younger calf at weaning that is 40 to 50 pounds lighter. Missing an estrus cycle of a single cow is a significant monetary loss in calf weight gain the following year. Getting cows bred earlier results in calves born earlier. A uniform, heavier calf crop is an important reason to keep the breeding season short. ![]() Maintaining a 60 to 75 day breeding and calving season can be one of the most important management tools for cow calf producers. Achieve both as economically as possible by getting cows bred to fewest possible bulls.Ī defined breeding season is important to permit meaningful record keeping, timely management and profit potential.Get cows bred to bulls with highest possible genetic value.Get cows settled as early in the breeding season as possible.The three major goals of any breeding season should be: This week we address bull to female ratios for breeding season. With that in mind, it’s time to plan and manage bulls for breeding season. For herds that plan to begin calving next January, breeding season begins in April. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |