This Blog is Yours, That's No Bull

It's bull sale season across the country, and that means bulls are starting to act like, well, bulls. They are ready for warm weather, green pastures and of course, the ladies. At our operation, we are busy showing customers our selection of bulls for sale via private treaty, and it's always fascinating to learn more about what buyers are looking for and placing as a priority in choosing their next herdsires. Whether you are selling bulls or looking to purchase a few, there are some important things to consider. I have compiled a list of resources from the online BEEF files for you to review when making breeding decisions for the upcoming season.

Check out the links to the listed resources below. I firmly believe that this blog is a forum designed by a cattle producer for cattle producers, and I always aim to cover a wide range of topics on this blog. So, what are you looking to hear about in March? What topics are high on your interest list? Related to today's topic, what are your priorities when making breeding decisions this year? This blog is yours, and that's no bull.

BEEF resources for bull selection:

10 Steps to Buying the Right Bull

Bull Selection is Critical to Long-Term Success

Sizing Up the Slackers

Things to Keep in Mind When Investing in Your Next Herdsire

BEEF Daily Quick Fact: Select yearling bulls for early maturity, testicular growth, satisfactory semen quality and health. If a bull fails the BSE at 12 months, Ellis recommends retesting in 30 to 60 days. “There's a major study that shows about 50% of the bulls at 12 months of age will not meet all the qualifications to be called a satisfactory potential breeder. But by 14-15 months of age, we're looking at 18-20% of the bulls that do not.” (Source: BEEF; By: Burt Rutherford)