The value of bull breeding soundness examinations (BSE) is well known. Approximately one in five bulls do not meet the minimum BSE standards established by the Society for Theriogenology. Bulls not meeting these minimum standards are seldom infertile; they are usually subfertile and will have lower conception rates than those who meet these standards.

A complete breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) for every bull, 45 to 60 days before each breeding season, is critical. It takes sperm 60 days to develop and mature.

We often focus primarily on heifer and cow nutrition because it is of great importance; however, it’s also important to remember that 50% of your calf crop’s genetics come from the sire.

Pregnancies matter. Reproductive efficiency is a priority in beef herds. If producers depend on natural service, then bulls contribute to at least half of reproduction and at least as much to the future of the cow herd through his daughters.