mermill2
Well-known member
What is the earliest age to breed Texas Longhorn heifers to a Texas Longhorn bull? What is the earliest age to breed a Texas Longhorn heifer to a Charolaise bull?
earliest to breed Texas Longhorn heifers
- Thread starter mermill2
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mermill2":2rg0rj4u said:
Beef heifers are usually bred at 15-16 months to calve as 2-year olds. Research says a heifer that calves as a two year old will probably be more productive in her lifetime. But she needs to be well grown out for her breed before she's bred. Raising a calf as a two year old is stressful on the heifer. She's still growing, plus raising a calf, so if she's bred too early, she may not breed back in time to have her second calf on time. You would lose the advantage of having her calve early.
I would never suggest breeding a Longhorn heifer to a Char bull, even though there are Char bulls available that are touted as being "calving ease" bulls. If you decide to do that, investigate the bull very carefully. Check his BW EPD, his parents EPDs, their actual BWs, and ask to see any calves he's sired. Good luck....
The main consideration on the heifer side is her pelvic measurement. If you can not do it, find someone who can. It does not have to be a vet. If she is mature enough to cycle and has the measurement minimum you are comfortable with go for it. You also may what to time the breeding with the rest of your cattle.
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