The American Angus Association� recently released a new research docility genetic evaluation. Differentiating cattle temperament is a likely topic of discussion for many producers. In Angus cattle, a factual means to describe temperament variation is now a reality.
The research report includes sire docility expected progeny differences (DOC EPDs). These EPDs are a tool to increase the chance of a sire's calves having calm behavior compared to calves of other sires. �Docility EPDs can be used as part of a complete selection program in the event that a producer needs to make improvement in a herd's cattle temperament. Angus breeders have submitted nearly 40,000 yearling temperament scores to allow genetic differences to be identified in sires for docility,� says Sally Northcutt, genetic research director for the Association.
The Spring 2008 docility research report contains DOC EPDs and accuracies for 554 sires in this first listing. The release of DOC EPDs is in the form of a web-based research report found at www.angussiresearch.com containing sire EPDs with a minimum .20 accuracy and at least 10 progeny and two groups. Printed copies are available on request. If you have questions, contact the Performance Programs Department at 816-383-5100.
The American Angus Association with headquarters in Saint Joseph, Mo., provides programs and services for more than 36,000 members nationwide and thousands of commercial producers who use Angus genetics. Go to www.angus.org for more information.
