Beyond the Bull Catalogue: What every rancher needs to know

As we dive into bull sale season, cattle producers face a critical question: how do you find the right herd bull to meet your operation’s goals?

In Season 3, Episode 3, of The Bovine podcast, brought to you by Alberta Beef Producers, host Kara Mastel is joined by Dr. Carling Matejka, a veterinarian with Veterinary Agri Health Services (VAHS), to discuss the nuances of herd bull selection.

From expected progeny differences (EPDs) to the hidden risks of over conditioning, Matejka offers expert insights on how producers can make informed decisions that balance efficiency, sustainability, and profitability.

Optimization Versus Maximization: A game-changer for breeders

One of the key takeaways from this conversation is the importance of optimization over maximization. While it may be tempting to focus on a single trait—whether it’s high weaning weights, increased milk production, or large scrotal size—Matejka emphasizes the need to take a more balanced approach. Selecting for extreme traits can lead to unintended consequences, such as increased feed costs, fertility issues, or structural problems. Instead, producers should aim for bulls that contribute to a well-rounded herd, factoring in mature cow size, milk production, and overall efficiency.

Understanding EPDs and phenotypes in bull selection

For those navigating bull sale catalogues, EPDs serve as a valuable tool to predict a bull’s genetic potential. However, as Matejka explains, they should be treated like a weather forecast—useful but not foolproof. While EPDs provide data on traits like birth weight, weaning weight, and milk production, phenotype still matters. Structural soundness, body condition, and overall health are just as important in determining a bull’s long-term impact on the herd.

The Cost of Bigger Cattle: More feed, more challenges

Over the past 50 years, mature cow weights have increased by approximately 150 pounds, largely due to selection for higher weaning weights. But is this trend truly beneficial? Matejka highlights the hidden costs associated with larger cows—primarily increased feed requirements. Producers need to weigh the trade-offs carefully, ensuring that growth potential aligns with available resources and economic sustainability.

Milk Production: Striking the right balance

Another key discussion point is the impact of milk production on herd health and fertility. While higher milk production can lead to heavier weaning weights, it also increases energy demands, which can negatively affect a cow’s ability to rebreed. This challenge is even more pronounced in rugged environments where resources are limited. Drawing comparisons to the dairy industry, Matejka explains how excessive selection for milk can lead to lower fertility rates—something beef producers should be mindful of when making breeding decisions.

Scrotal Circumference: What you need to know

Scrotal circumference is often used as an indicator of fertility, but Matejka warns that bigger isn’t always better. While a larger scrotal size is generally correlated with higher fertility and earlier puberty in offspring, excessive focus on this trait can lead to misleading assessments. Overconditioned bulls, for example, may have artificially inflated scrotal measurements due to fat accumulation, which can negatively impact sperm quality.

Expert tips for bull sale day

If you’re heading to a bull sale, Matejka offers some key strategies to ensure you make the right selection:

1. Have a clear goal. Know what traits matter most to your operation before you start browsing.
2. Dig beyond the catalogue. Utilize breed association websites to get a full picture of a bull’s genetic profile.
3. Ask questions. Find out how the bull was raised, what he was fed, and if any conditions may have influenced his phenotype.
4. Consider a veterinary evaluation. A breeding soundness exam can provide crucial insights into a bull’s fertility and overall health.

Selecting the right herd bull is a major decision that impacts both the short-term success and long-term sustainability of an operation. By prioritizing optimization over maximization, balance EPD data with phenotype evaluation, and considering factors like mature cow eight, milk production, and scrotal health, producers can make informed choices that lead to more efficient, profitable, and resilient herds.

For more expert insights, be sure to catch the full episode of The Bovine. If you have questions or topic ideas for future episodes, reach out via Alberta Beef Producers’ social channels or email Kara Mastel directly. Until next time — stay safe, stay warm, and happy bull shopping!