A bull is usually selected to make genetic improvements in a herd, but should also be effective in breeding and “settling” cows.  Some recommendations for selecting, evaluating, and managing bulls for a high percentage calf crop are as follows:

• Use bulls at least 2 years old.  Bulls’ weights will vary according to breed and feeding program.
• Have your bull checked for diseases and breeding problems before the breeding season.
• Bulls should be in optimum condition for breeding season.  Watch their condition and make sure nutritional needs are met so they don’t become too thin.
• Have enough bulls for your herd size.  A normal ratio is 1 bull to 30 to 35 cows.
• Check cows to make sure they are “settling”.
• After breeding season, put them on a nutritionally sound feeding program so they’ll recover any weight lost during the breeding season.
• Select bulls from cows with superior records that calve every 12 months.