keeping 1st calves as replacements?

[T-Bro]

Is there any problem with keeping a heifers first calf as a replacement heifer?
I'll have a limo X longhorn out of a limo heifer and thought that this would make a good mother and good addition.

 

[BlackBaldyMan]

If you arent shooting to have purebred calves then go for it, crosses alot of the time make better mothers with the increase in hybrid vigor from both breeds.

 

[T-Bro]

I guess my question was poorly stated.
What I mean is... Is there a difference between the first calf and the second calf? Would the second calve be safer as far as health, growth, etc?

 

[randiliana]

If this calf is healthy, I wouldn't worry about it. The growth may be lower simply because a lot of bulls that are used on heifers are chosen mostly for their BW and calving ease. Growth seems to be forgotten. But if the calf is big enough that you are considering keeping her, then she will probably make a fine cow.

 

[msscamp]

I guess my question was poorly stated.
What I mean is... Is there a difference between the first calf and the second calf? Would the second calve be safer as far as health, growth, etc?

Generally speaking, the first calf will be smaller than the second calf, and 2 year-old heifers tend to not milk as well as they will as 3 year-olds. A lot of times people will manage 2 year-olds a little differently than mature cows to prevent them from being drug down by their immaturity combined with supporting a calf. We routinely keep first calves out of heifers for replacements and have had no problems with them or their subsequent calves. Just my thoughts.

 

[DiamondSCattleCo]

Theres no problem with retaining an animal from a heifer. As has been noted, the birthweight and weaning weights _may_ be slightly lower due to the heifer's smaller body size and lowered milking, however this won't affect the offspring's genetic potential and it should mature into a perfectly functioning adult. About the worst thing that could occur is the offspring will mature a little later, due to the lower weaning weight, but your management can take care of that.

Rod

 

[Double R Ranch]

We retain all our heifers out of first years. Until they have given a reason to grow wheels.

Double R

 

[T-Bro]

Thanks for the responses.
I've read this board for a while and learned a great deal.
It's beneficial to me to get so many different opinions, then make my own decision.
Again, thank you.