Effect of Calving Period on Heifer Progeny

Authors

• Richard N. Funston, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
• Jacqueline A. Musgrave, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
• Tonya L. Meyer, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
• Dan M. Larson, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Date of this Version

2012

Comments

Published in 2012 Beef Cattle Report (2012) p. 18-19. Copyright © 2012 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Records from 1997 through 2009 were used to determine the effect of calving date on ADG, reproduction, and first-calf characteristics in spring born heifer calves at University of Nebraska– Lincoln Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory. Heifers were classified as born in the first, second, or third 21- day period of the calving season. Heifer calves born during the first 21 days had greater weaning, pre-breeding, and pre-calving BW; greater percent cycling before breeding, and pregnancy rates compared to heifers born in the third period. First-calf progeny had earlier birth date and greater weaning BW. Calving period of heifer progeny impacts development and first-calf characteristics.