How Do We Improve Percent Calf Crop Weaned?
Percent calf-crop weaned is of paramount economic importance in a cow-calf operation. Selection, mating and management to improve reproductive efficiency are all important areas to improve percent calf-crop weaned.
From a standpoint of genetics and animal breeding, reproductive traits are low in heritability (typically 10% - 20%) but show high levels of heterosis in response to crossbreeding. If a producer is going to take advantage of heterosis in one part of the commercial cow-calf operation, take advantage of maternal heterosis in the cow herd. The crossbred cow has an advantage in “reproductive fitness.”
When selecting seedstock for a well-designed crossbreeding system, consider genetic values. Genetic change is cumulative and permanent. Selecting bulls with strong EPDs for reproductive traits will result in their daughters having high genetic potential for reproductive efficiency. Each beef registry publishes a sire summary that includes several EPDs that fall under the “Maternal” heading. Applying selection pressure to EPDs enable producers to genetically tailor the cow herd to fit the production environment and thereby maximize reproductive efficiency.
From a standpoint of management, herd health and proper nutrition are essential to maximize reproductive performance. A good working relationship with a veterinarian enables producers to tailor a herd health plan best suited to your production environment and cow herd. When it comes to a proper vaccination program and parasite control an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Nutritional management plays an important role in reproductive efficiency. Cows and heifers
going into the calving season at a body condition score of 5.5 – 6.0 ensures they have the energy reserves to deal with the spike in nutritional requirements once lactation starts. Timely breed back is also enhanced by a good body condition score. Optimum reproductive efficiency is getting all cows to raise a calf to weaning in a 365 day window. Rebreeding intervals need to stay within 80-85 days of calving. Parasite control, a good vaccination program and proper nutrition all play a vital role in maintaining an optimum rebreeding interval and keeping cows bred.
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