cmf1-
Your 80 day old bull calf is an excellent example of a calf of 'whatever' breed one is discussing of 80 day old optimal phenotype for a beef calf! There seems to be those who want a juvenile calf to look like a two year old mature show bull! Not to be! This calf, just like all calves, will grow in various stages of maturity, will change his appearances many times, often on a daily basis. When his growth stage reaches the point of nitrogen production and testosterone naturally producing masculine traits (neck crest, wider and heavier bone structure, curly head hair, testicle manifestation, heavier jaw musculature, and beginnings of libido) - then one can, with justification, analyize the animal and decide if he is structurally and phenotypically desirable for your particular requirements. In my opinion, this calf is well on his way to being a very desirable herd sire for satisfying the Production and Carcass requirements of many beef producers. Not knowing his genetic factors would dictate a thorough examination of his Genetype background and pedigree dominance. His dam appears to be a satisfactory producing female from looking at the pictures, but a more complete study of the genetics is in order before deciding on using him for an entire herd. I am optimistic, but the proof of the pudding is in a complete genetic study. - - - and that study should certainly include the Genotype, Phenotype and Functional traits and characteristics of the females with which he is going to mate. That study could save you ten years of potential mistakes!
Some serious planning in advance is well worth your time and trouble!
This is an optimal appearing future herd sire! I suggest that you really go into his genetic background and potential success as a future herd sire! With an open mind.
DOC HARRIS
