Bull selection is a key part of improving herd production and minimizing costs. The more efficient the bulls in the herd, the faster cows and heifers become pregnant, the tighter the calving window is and therefore management (mustering, branding etc.) can be condensed. Often fewer bulls are also required and longevity is increased meaning trips to the sale can become less frequent.
A veterinary bull breeding soundness exam (BBSE) includes more than just looking at semen quality. It begins with a distance exam – we will observe their confirmation, gait and body condition as they come up the race. Ability to serve consistently and successfully is just as important as the quality of semen, therefore upright hocks, swollen hocks (bulls on grain), scissor feet, eye abnormalities, lameness and poor condition are all relevant. Libido is factor which we cannot assess crush side and is often breed dependent. Observation of bulls in the paddock is needed to make an assessment on this.
Once in the crush we will palpate internal reproductive organs (prostate and seminal vesicles) and measure scrotal circumference. After collection the semen is assessed crush side for density, mass activity and progressive motility. Morphology samples are sent to the lab for evaluation. We will discuss with producers about bull selection for the season to come based off our findings.
If you have any questions about your herd health and bull selection, give our team a call on 07 4982 2552.