In the western U.S., ranchers utilize extensive and rugged rangeland pastures. Generally, cattle are reluctant to graze steep slopes, climb high ridges and travel long distances from water.

In May 2011, I was asked by Angus Australia to begin investigating a phenotype that was being described as polymelia. The majority of calves exhibiting this trait are born with additional limbs, usually duplication of the front legs and originating from the neck or shoulder region.

Beef producers in the United States have been able to effectively increase the amount of beef produced without increasing the number of animals overall through selective breeding for genetically superior animals and improved nutrition and management.