Reproductive technologies such as estrus synchronization, artificial insemination and embryo transfer have significantly improved genetic progress in beef cattle. Yet, one major biological limitation continues to constrain reproductive efficiency across operations: early embryonic mortality.

'Tis the season of one of the many seasons on the ranch. Many times, it seems like all the seasons run together. You have calving season, branding season, breeding season, hay season, weaning and shipping, and then before you know it, you’re into calving season again.

Pregnancy loss is one of the most frustrating and costly reproductive challenges in beef cattle production. Even with good nutrition, thoughtful bull selection and sound management, we still deal with open cows, early embryonic loss and the occasional unexplained abortion.

In the past 20 years, genetic potential of the cow herd and production costs have steadily increased; however, production outputs (pregnancy rates and weaning weights) have been stagnant or declined.

Sire overconditioning is a prevalent issue in the beef industry. While “fat sells” when it comes to selling bulls, research has shown that excessive conditioning can negatively affect semen quality.

The October podcast goes to Denver, Colorado, for the Red Angus annual conference where David Cooper interviews Rick Funston and Jordan Shockley. Funston, a reproductive physiologist with University of Nebraska – Lincoln, explains numerous factors toward efficiency in repro rates, heifer selection and reproductive success. 

As cow-calf producers and veterinarians evaluate options for pre-breeding vaccinations on heifers and cows, it is critical to think about the long-term effects of the disease pathogens that you are protecting against.