Bull Management
Technical Note 754 Utilising Maternal Trait EBVs of Beef Bulls
Bull selection is a vital part of breeding replacements. Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) are a valuable tool to help us select the best bull for the job. If breeding heifer replacements key maternal traits to look for include milk and calving ease. This Technical Note provides an overview of the maternal trait EBVs and Indexes available, and how to interpret and use them to select the best bulls for your herd. Read more>>
Is Your Bull Working?
Now that bulls will have been out with cows for at least one cycle it is important to make sure that cows are holding to service.
It is important to make sure that you regularly observe the bulls (at least twice a week) for the first two months in order to pick up on any issues or concerns such as lack of libido or penis damage quickly before these have a major impact on your herd. Read more >>
Bulling Thoughts
You may be busy calving at the moment, but it is also time to make sure that your bull is fit to work when he is turned in with the cows and heifers. Gavin Hill gives some pointers of what you should be considering. Read more>>
Bull Buyers Checklist
For those who are intending purchasing bulls at bull sales the following should give you helpful pointers to help with the decision making process. Careful considerations should be made to make sure that you buy the bull that is right for you and your herd. Read more>>
Post Purchase Bull Management
Many of you may have purchased a new stock bull from the various pedigree bull sales recently. Here are a few pointers for looking after and managing your new investment; Read more>>
The Cost Of Bull Infertility
The cost of bull infertility will vary considerably depending on the exact circumstances. In the following example we have compared a completely infertile bull v a sub fertile bull. For the sub fertile bull we have assumed conception rates of 30% compared with 60% for a fertile bull. Read more>>
Sign up to the FAS newsletter
Receive updates on news, events and publications from Scotland’s Farm Advisory Service