Jared Murnin
Association Perspective
Take care of your investment.
Angus bulls have been in high demand this spring bull sale season. Solid averages and record prices were seen throughout the country. Private-treaty sales have been very strong, as well. Commercial producers who use Angus genetics realize the value of a high-quality Angus bull and the impact that sire can have on their cow herd. According to the sales reported to the Angus Journal, Angus bulls have averaged just more than $2,960 per head. We know bulls have the biggest impact on a cowman's herd, so it makes sense to take care of that investment.
I commonly get a lot of questions about herd bull management, especially management questions relating to young bulls: How many cows can a young bull breed? How old does the bull have to be to settle cows? As long as a bull passes a breeding soundness exam, he can service cows. A good rule of thumb is that a 12-month-old bull can handle 12 cows; an 18-month-old bull can handle 18 cows, etc.
Remember, these younger bulls are still growing, and they are losing teeth and replacing them with permanent ones. These two factors alone are enough to make it hard to maintain body weight, let alone breed cows. It is also a good idea to not put younger bulls with mature bulls. This can help prevent injury to the younger bull. He may also get more cows settled with less competition from older and stronger bulls. Consider pulling these younger bulls early and feeding them extra so they can finish growing and maturing without falling too far behind.
Don't forget about care and maintenance for older bulls. Remember to worm them regularly and utilize a herd health program just like you use for your cows. It's a good idea to make sure they can pass a breeding soundness exam before you turn them out each year. A bull that can't settle cows is not doing his job and is not worth keeping or turning out year after year.
Make sure all bulls are in good condition before you turn them out with the cows. Evaluate all bulls 60 days before turn out and supplement any bulls that many need it. This gives you time to get them into breeding shape if necessary. A thin bull will not last long into the breeding season, if he produces semen at all.
These are just a few tips and reminders to help you get the most out of that Angus bull that you have invested in. Good management of your bulls — young and old — should promote their longevity for years to come.
Editor's Note: Regional Manager Jared Murnin covers Region 1, including the states of Texas and New Mexico. Click here to find the regional manager for your state.
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