12
Managing Your Performance Tested Bull
To obtain the optimum breeding performance from these bulls, it is important to
remember that they are relatively young and developing thus will require better
care than 2-year-old or mature bulls.
*CONDITIONING YOUNG BULLS
– Yearling bulls should be kept in a moderate flesh
avoiding excessive or inadequate condition. Additionally, they should be kept in a
pasture large enough to promote adequate exercise.
*FEEDING THE YEARLING BULL
– If the yearling bull is to develop normally, he
should receive supplemental protein and energy at a level of ½ to 1 lb. of grain per
100 lbs. of body weight. After the breeding season has started, the yearling bull
should receive ½ lb. of grain per 100 lbs. of body weight especially when pastures
become short. After the breeding season 5-6 lbs. of grain plus good quality
roughage should be adequate.
*MANAGEMENT AT THE START OF THE BREEDING SEASON
– It is wise to observe
the yearling bull a the start of the breeding season to insure that he can breed
satisfactorily and has adequate libido. In many cases, allowing him to breed a few
heifers or cows in a easily observed area prior to turn-out is a good practice.
If is often good management to rotate yearling bulls during a long breeding
season. In other words, putting the bull in the breeding pasture for 3 weeks and
then removing him for 1-2 weeks will aid in maintaining adequate growth and
development during the breeding season.
*HEALTH PROGRAM –
The following practices will insure the health of the bull and
increase his breeding effectiveness and longevity:
1) Control internal and external parasites throughout the year
2) Have a breeding soundness examination and semen evaluation performed at
least a month prior to the breeding season.
3) Trim the feet if necessary.
