The Top Seven Criteria for Picking a Bull for Replacement Heifers
- Use the factors below to describe the level of calving ease performance needed.
- Decide if the bull will be used only to breed replacement heifers or also used to breed cows.
- Know the calf marketing plan so that the calf raised has value beyond being alive.
- Consider the calving season to include the Calving Ease EPD requirement because winter born calves typically have heavier birth weights than summer or fall born calves.
- Determine the breed of the bull you are going select and how that fits into your crossbreeding program.
- Decide whether or not replacements from this mating will be retained.
- Understand the current level of calving ease performance in first calf heifers and cows.