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Effect of calving distribution on beef cattle progeny performance
R N Funston1, J A Musgrave, T L Meyer
1University of Nebraska, West Central Research and Extension Center, North Platte, NE 69101, USA. rfunston2@unl.edu
Journal of Animal Science
|August 9, 2012
Summary
Calving during the first 21 days of the spring season positively impacts beef cattle performance. Early-born heifers show improved reproductive success and weight gain, while early-born steers exhibit better carcass quality and value.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Beef Cattle Production
Background:
- Calving season timing is a critical factor influencing beef cattle productivity and profitability.
- Understanding the impact of calving period on progeny performance is essential for optimizing herd management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of calving period on heifer and steer progeny performance.
- To determine how birth date within the calving season influences growth, reproductive success, and carcass characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized records from 1,019 heifers and 771 steers collected between 1997 and 2010.
- Classified progeny into first, second, or third 21-day periods of the spring calving season.
- Analyzed birth weight, average daily gain (ADG), body weight at various stages, reproductive rates, and carcass traits.
Main Results:
- Heifers born in the first calving period exhibited lighter birth weights but greater prebreeding and precalving weights, higher cycling rates, and improved pregnancy rates.
- Steer progeny born earlier in the season had greater weaning and carcass weights, superior marbling scores, and higher overall carcass value.
- Advancing calving period negatively impacted weaning weight in steers and heifers, and reduced carcass quality in steers.
Conclusions:
- Calving period significantly impacts both heifer reproductive performance and steer growth and carcass traits.
- Optimizing calving distribution to favor earlier births within the season can enhance overall beef production efficiency and economic returns.
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