Though it’s only February and many are dialed in on calving season, producers remain looking forward to the next management task and next calf crop. While seedstock producers are busy organizing expected progeny differences (EPDs) for catalogs and preparing to host auctions, the spring-calving cow-calf producer may be preparing to purchase new paternal genetics. When considering this vital investment, producers need to have a plan and be prepared. Part of this preparation needs to include evaluating your current bull battery, taking into account the age of a bull, how it has recovered from the previous breeding season, and are there any visible structural injuries that would impede its performance in the spring?
Bulls tend to age out of use around 6 years old, in part due to becoming too large, but also having a decrease in sperm production and health. This is the time of year to ensure the bull has been seen by your veterinarian to conduct a breeding soundness exam. When determining if a bull is worthy to keep, it might also be worth considering the benefits of parentage DNA testing of all calves to determine which bulls are working and which bulls are lying around the watering hole. It’s not uncommon to have bulls that aren’t breeding many (if any) cows, while others breed the majority. It’s also beneficial to know which bulls are passing along desirable traits versus bulls that aren’t stacking up.
Once it’s been determined how many new bulls need to be purchased, an operation then needs to confirm their operational goals and needs, especially if they’ve shifted from previous years. EPDs continue to expand what can be measured and evaluated in terms of genetic potential, providing producers the opportunity to improve their marketing success and herd longevity. Fortunately, many of the breed associations have worked to create resources for producers to use in familiarizing themselves with the EPD definitions that will enable them to more confidently select bulls that meet their production goals from genetic and marketing standpoints.
Seedstock producers themselves are also a good resource to rely on, as they take pride in their genetics meeting an operation’s need, so many will take the time to explain what certain EPDs are indicating. Also, talk to bull sellers about cow herd needs and requirements. They often know the family genetics and bloodlines of their bulls and can steer a buyer in the direction of bulls that meet their needs. Again, bull sellers want customers to be happy with the bulls they buy and are more than willing to work with them to make that happen.
