As November arrives, many Florida cow-calf producers are preparing for the upcoming breeding season. While much of the attention is often placed on the reproductive readiness of the cow herd, the bull plays an equally important role in achieving a successful calf crop. A bull&#8217;s fertility, nutritional status, physical condition, and ability to successfully breed [&#8230;]

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">As November arrives, many Florida cow-calf producers are preparing for the upcoming breeding season. While much of the attention is often placed on the reproductive readiness of the cow herd, the bull plays an equally important role in achieving a successful calf crop. A bull&#8217;s fertility, nutritional status, physical condition, and ability to successfully breed cows can all influence reproductive performance. Taking the time to evaluate breeding bulls before turnout can help producers identify potential challenges and make management adjustments before the breeding season begins.</p>
<h3>Body Condition and Nutrition Matter</h3>
<p>Just like cows, bulls need to enter the breeding season in adequate body condition. Bulls that are underconditioned may lack the energy reserves needed to maintain breeding activity, while excessively conditioned bulls may experience reduced mobility and other challenges.</p>
<p>Mature bulls should generally enter the breeding season at a body condition score (BCS) of approximately 5.5 to 6.5 on a 9-point scale. Evaluating body condition before breeding allows producers to make nutritional adjustments when necessary. Forage quality, available grazing, and supplementation strategies should all be considered, especially as Florida transitions into the cooler months when warm-season forage growth begins to slow.</p>
<h3>Don&#8217;t Overlook Physical Soundness</h3>
<p>A bull may have acceptable semen quality but still struggle to successfully breed cows if he is physically unsound. Feet and leg problems, injuries, poor eyesight, or other health concerns can limit a bull&#8217;s ability to locate, mount, and service cows.</p>
<p>Before turnout, producers should observe bulls for signs of lameness, injuries, or difficulty moving. Evaluating their overall physical condition can help identify potential issues before they affect reproductive performance.</p>
<h3>Understanding Bull-to-Cow Ratios</h3>
<p>Determining how many cows a bull can successfully breed is another important consideration. Appropriate bull-to-cow ratios depend on several factors, including bull age, breeding experience, pasture size, terrain, and the length of the breeding season.</p>
<p>Mature, experienced bulls may be capable of servicing more cows than younger bulls. However, placing too many cows with a single bull can increase the risk of missed breeding opportunities, particularly if that bull becomes injured or experiences reduced fertility during the breeding season.</p>
<h3>A Breeding Soundness Exam Is Still Essential</h3>
<p>Although nutritional and physical management are important, they do not replace the need for a breeding soundness examination (BSE). A BSE evaluates several aspects of a bull&#8217;s reproductive potential, including physical soundness, scrotal circumference, sperm motility, and sperm morphology.</p>
<p>Producers should work with their veterinarian to schedule examinations well ahead of the breeding season, allowing time to address potential concerns or locate replacement bulls if necessary.</p>
<p>It is also important to remember that passing a BSE does not guarantee successful breeding. Libido and actual breeding performance are not directly evaluated during a routine examination, making continued observation during the breeding season essential.</p>
<h3>Preparing Today for Next Year&#8217;s Calf Crop</h3>
<p>Successful reproductive management begins before bulls are introduced to the cow herd. Evaluating body condition, monitoring physical soundness, determining appropriate bull-to-cow ratios, and conducting breeding soundness examinations are all important steps in preparing for the breeding season.</p>
<p>By taking a proactive approach to bull management, Florida cattle producers can reduce reproductive risks and improve their chances of achieving a successful calf crop.</p>


As November arrives, many Florida cow-calf producers are preparing for the upcoming breeding season. While much of the attention is often placed on the reproductive readiness of the cow herd, the bull plays an equally important role in achieving a successful calf crop. A bull’s fertility, nutritional status, physical condition, and ability to successfully breed cows can all influence reproductive performance. Taking the time to evaluate breeding bulls before turnout can help producers identify potential challenges and make management adjustments before the breeding season begins.
Body Condition and Nutrition Matter
Just like cows, bulls need to enter the breeding season in adequate body condition. Bulls that are underconditioned may lack the energy reserves needed to maintain breeding activity, while excessively conditioned bulls may experience reduced mobility and other challenges.
Mature bulls should generally enter the breeding season at a body condition score (BCS) of approximately 5.5 to 6.5 on a 9-point scale. Evaluating body condition before breeding allows producers to make nutritional adjustments when necessary. Forage quality, available grazing, and supplementation strategies should all be considered, especially as Florida transitions into the cooler months when warm-season forage growth begins to slow.
Don’t Overlook Physical Soundness
A bull may have acceptable semen quality but still struggle to successfully breed cows if he is physically unsound. Feet and leg problems, injuries, poor eyesight, or other health concerns can limit a bull’s ability to locate, mount, and service cows.
Before turnout, producers should observe bulls for signs of lameness, injuries, or difficulty moving. Evaluating their overall physical condition can help identify potential issues before they affect reproductive performance.
Understanding Bull-to-Cow Ratios
Determining how many cows a bull can successfully breed is another important consideration. Appropriate bull-to-cow ratios depend on several factors, including bull age, breeding experience, pasture size, terrain, and the length of the breeding season.
Mature, experienced bulls may be capable of servicing more cows than younger bulls. However, placing too many cows with a single bull can increase the risk of missed breeding opportunities, particularly if that bull becomes injured or experiences reduced fertility during the breeding season.
A Breeding Soundness Exam Is Still Essential
Although nutritional and physical management are important, they do not replace the need for a breeding soundness examination (BSE). A BSE evaluates several aspects of a bull’s reproductive potential, including physical soundness, scrotal circumference, sperm motility, and sperm morphology.
Producers should work with their veterinarian to schedule examinations well ahead of the breeding season, allowing time to address potential concerns or locate replacement bulls if necessary.
It is also important to remember that passing a BSE does not guarantee successful breeding. Libido and actual breeding performance are not directly evaluated during a routine examination, making continued observation during the breeding season essential.
Preparing Today for Next Year’s Calf Crop
Successful reproductive management begins before bulls are introduced to the cow herd. Evaluating body condition, monitoring physical soundness, determining appropriate bull-to-cow ratios, and conducting breeding soundness examinations are all important steps in preparing for the breeding season.
By taking a proactive approach to bull management, Florida cattle producers can reduce reproductive risks and improve their chances of achieving a successful calf crop.

As November arrives, many Florida cow-calf producers are preparing for the upcoming breeding season. While much of the attention is often placed on the reproductive readiness of the cow herd, the bull plays an equally important role in achieving a successful calf crop. A bull’s fertility, nutritional status, physical condition, and ability to successfully breed […]

Before You Turn Him Out: Preparing Bulls for Breeding Season

When an American cowboy comes to mind, most of us envision the plains of Texas. But in reality, Florida is also a huge cattle state, and has a 500-year ranching tradition. Florida—especially the central counties of Okeechobee, Highlands, and Osceola—is home to 1.5 million cows. The livestock industry is a big part of the state [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_45409" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-45409" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2026/10/bull-4h-scaled.jpg"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-45409 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="4-H youth with a cow" width="300" height="242" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2026/10/bull-4h-300x242.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-45409" class="wp-caption-text">Florida families and 4-H youth have a long history of raising cattle throughout the state. Source: Smathers Archives.</figcaption></figure>
<p>When an American cowboy comes to mind, most of us envision the plains of Texas. But in reality, Florida is also a huge cattle state, and has a 500-year ranching tradition. Florida—especially the central counties of Okeechobee, Highlands, and Osceola—is home to 1.5 million cows. The livestock industry is a big part of the state economy and covers half of the state’s agricultural land (3.5 million acres). Florida is a big breeding state, raising calves and selling them elsewhere in the country for beef (<a href="https://fred.ifas.ufl.edu/extension/economic-impact-analysis-program/florida-ag-food-and-resources/spotlight-on-florida-cattle/">$586 million in sales</a>), along with over $520 million in milk sales from dairy cows.</p>
<figure id="attachment_45413" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-45413" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2026/10/usf-bull-brahman.jpg"><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-45413 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="logo with a charging bull in a USF sweater" width="300" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2026/10/usf-bull-brahman-300x300.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-45413" class="wp-caption-text">The original logo for the University of South Florida Golden Brahmans&#8211;later shortened to the Bulls. Courtesy USF Athletics</figcaption></figure>
<p>When the <a href="https://www.usf.edu/">University of South Florida (USF)</a> in Tampa was looking for a good athletic mascot in the 1960’s (5 years after the school’s founding), they put it to a vote. It came down to the Buccaneers or the <a href="https://gousfbulls.com/news/2009/3/19/3696252">Golden Brahmans.</a> The Buccaneers won it by 3 votes, but the name got disqualified because of a misunderstanding that Pensacola Junior College had the same mascot. Turns out, we have the <a href="https://athletics.pensacolastate.edu/landing/index">Pirates here</a>, but by then folks had locked in on the Golden Brahmans. Leaders and students liked the idea of an <a href="https://www.usf.edu/about-usf/traditions.aspx">intimidating bovine ambassador to compete with the Texas Longhorns</a>.</p>
<figure id="attachment_45411" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-45411" style="width: 225px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2026/10/A-prize-Brahman-bull-on-a-farm-near-Brooksville-Florida.-UFIFAS-Photo-Thomas-Wright-scaled.jpg"><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-45411 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="two men in cowboy hats standing with a brahman bull" width="225" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2026/10/A-prize-Brahman-bull-on-a-farm-near-Brooksville-Florida.-UFIFAS-Photo-Thomas-Wright-225x300.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-45411" class="wp-caption-text">A prize Brahman bull on a farm near Brooksville, Florida. UF/IFAS Photo: Thomas Wright</figcaption></figure>
<p>The <a href="https://floridabrahman.org/brahman/about-fba/">Brahman</a>, in particular, is a popular breed in Florida due to its tolerance for heat. It does <a href="https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AN366">well in Florida</a> due to darker skin (preventing UV damage), shorter hair (reducing heat retention), and larger sweat glands to help cool them. Eventually, that mouthful of a mascot was shortened to the “Brahmans” and finally the “Bulls,” represented by a rather <em>beefy</em> <a href="https://www.usf.edu/about-usf/rocky.aspx">bull named Rocky</a>.</p>
<figure id="attachment_45419" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-45419" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2026/10/Official_USF_Bulls_Athletic_Logo.png"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-45419 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="USF logo is a green letter &quot;U&quot; with horns" width="300" height="240" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2026/10/Official_USF_Bulls_Athletic_Logo-300x240.png"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-45419" class="wp-caption-text">USF&#8217;s official athletic logo incorporates bull horns. Courtesy USF Athletics.</figcaption></figure>
<p>While not a wild native species like other college mascots, cattle have a long history in Florida. Juan Ponce de Leon and his crew of explorers brought Spanish cows in with them during early explorations of the state in the 1500’s. By the <a href="https://www.floridabeef.org/raising-beef/cattle-in-florida">1600’s, Florida had 34 cattle ranches</a>, foraging on large expanses of grassland and scrub in a fence-less landscape. Florida’s cowboys were known as “crackers,” so named for the sound of their whips cracking as they herded livestock from one place to the other. The popular novel, <a href="https://alandremembered.com/">“A Land Remembered” by Patrick D. Smith</a> provides an excellent overview of ranching life in Florida starting in the 1850’s, for 100 years, right around the time USF was founded.</p>
<figure id="attachment_45421" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-45421" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2026/10/range.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-45421 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="a cowboy on a horse in a field full of cattle" width="300" height="146" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2026/10/range-300x146.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-45421" class="wp-caption-text">A rancher manages cattle in south Florida. Photo credit: H. Li, Archbold Biological Station</figcaption></figure>
<p>While many don’t consider cattle ranching an ecology-based trade, the vast expanses of rangeland used for cattle grazing is of huge benefit to native Florida wildlife. The mix of upland and wetland habitats provides habitat for native plants and birds, along with the open expanses needed by Florida panthers. While ranchers are understandably concerned about <a href="https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/panther/depredations/">panthers predating their calves, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)</a> often works with cattle operations to provide incentives for protecting panthers and allowing them access on and through their ranches.</p>


Florida families and 4-H youth have a long history of raising cattle throughout the state. Source: Smathers Archives.
When an American cowboy comes to mind, most of us envision the plains of Texas. But in reality, Florida is also a huge cattle state, and has a 500-year ranching tradition. Florida—especially the central counties of Okeechobee, Highlands, and Osceola—is home to 1.5 million cows. The livestock industry is a big part of the state economy and covers half of the state’s agricultural land (3.5 million acres). Florida is a big breeding state, raising calves and selling them elsewhere in the country for beef ($586 million in sales), along with over $520 million in milk sales from dairy cows.
The original logo for the University of South Florida Golden Brahmans–later shortened to the Bulls. Courtesy USF Athletics
When the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa was looking for a good athletic mascot in the 1960’s (5 years after the school’s founding), they put it to a vote. It came down to the Buccaneers or the Golden Brahmans. The Buccaneers won it by 3 votes, but the name got disqualified because of a misunderstanding that Pensacola Junior College had the same mascot. Turns out, we have the Pirates here, but by then folks had locked in on the Golden Brahmans. Leaders and students liked the idea of an intimidating bovine ambassador to compete with the Texas Longhorns.
A prize Brahman bull on a farm near Brooksville, Florida. UF/IFAS Photo: Thomas Wright
The Brahman, in particular, is a popular breed in Florida due to its tolerance for heat. It does well in Florida due to darker skin (preventing UV damage), shorter hair (reducing heat retention), and larger sweat glands to help cool them. Eventually, that mouthful of a mascot was shortened to the “Brahmans” and finally the “Bulls,” represented by a rather beefy bull named Rocky.
USF’s official athletic logo incorporates bull horns. Courtesy USF Athletics.
While not a wild native species like other college mascots, cattle have a long history in Florida. Juan Ponce de Leon and his crew of explorers brought Spanish cows in with them during early explorations of the state in the 1500’s. By the 1600’s, Florida had 34 cattle ranches, foraging on large expanses of grassland and scrub in a fence-less landscape. Florida’s cowboys were known as “crackers,” so named for the sound of their whips cracking as they herded livestock from one place to the other. The popular novel, “A Land Remembered” by Patrick D. Smith provides an excellent overview of ranching life in Florida starting in the 1850’s, for 100 years, right around the time USF was founded.
A rancher manages cattle in south Florida. Photo credit: H. Li, Archbold Biological Station
While many don’t consider cattle ranching an ecology-based trade, the vast expanses of rangeland used for cattle grazing is of huge benefit to native Florida wildlife. The mix of upland and wetland habitats provides habitat for native plants and birds, along with the open expanses needed by Florida panthers. While ranchers are understandably concerned about panthers predating their calves, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) often works with cattle operations to provide incentives for protecting panthers and allowing them access on and through their ranches.

When an American cowboy comes to mind, most of us envision the plains of Texas. But in reality, Florida is also a huge cattle state, and has a 500-year ranching tradition. Florida—especially the central counties of Okeechobee, Highlands, and Osceola—is home to 1.5 million cows. The livestock industry is a big part of the state […]

Weekly “What is it?” Tailgate Trivia Edition: The Bulls

The cattle business is full of decisions! Some have a small impact, while others influence herd productivity and profitability for years. During a presentation on applied cow-calf management systems, University of Florida Animal Sciences professor Dr. Todd Thrift outlined several management practices that consistently separate successful operations from average ones. While every ranch is different, [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_13283" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-13283" style="width: 450px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-13283 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Todd Thrift speaking at the Beef Teaching Unit (BTU). Photo taken 12-06-22." width="450" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/files/2026/06/029474-scaled.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-13283" class="wp-caption-text">Todd Thrift speaking at the Beef Teaching Unit (BTU).<br />Photo Credit: UFIFAS 12-06-22.</figcaption></figure>
<h6><strong>The cattle business is full of decisions!</strong></h6>
<p>Some have a small impact, while others influence herd productivity and profitability for years. During a presentation on applied cow-calf management systems, University of Florida Animal Sciences professor Dr. Todd Thrift outlined several management practices that consistently separate successful operations from average ones. While every ranch is different, research and industry experience suggest that focusing on a few key areas can generate substantial returns.</p>
<h3><strong><br />
1. Utilize a Defined Calving Season</strong></h3>
<p>A controlled calving season remains one of the most effective management tools available to cow-calf producers. Concentrated calving seasons simplify nutrition programs, vaccination schedules, breeding management, and marketing decisions.</p>
<p>Research has consistently shown that herds with shorter calving seasons produce more uniform calf crops and allow producers to identify open or late-breeding cows more effectively. Cows that calve during the first 21 days of the calving season generally wean calves that are 30 to 50 pounds heavier than calves born later simply because they are older at weaning (Funston et al., 2012). Early-calving cows also tend to remain in the herd longer and produce more pounds of calf over their lifetime.</p>
<h3><strong>2. Develop Heifers to Calve at Two Years of Age</strong></h3>
<figure id="attachment_13289" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-13289" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-13289 size-medium lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Calves. Photo Credit: UFIFAS 03-05-25." width="300" height="160" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/files/2026/06/033878-1-300x160.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-13289" class="wp-caption-text">Calves. Photo Credit: UFIFAS 03-05-25.</figcaption></figure>
<p>Replacement heifers represent a significant investment, and delaying first calving reduces lifetime productivity. Numerous studies have demonstrated that heifers calving as two-year-olds generally produce more calves over their lifetime than females that enter production later.</p>
<p>The Beef Reproduction Task Force recommends developing replacement heifers to reach approximately 60 to 65 percent of their expected mature body weight by the start of the breeding season. Research indicates that females bred successfully as yearlings tend to have greater lifetime productivity and longevity than those that calve later (Patterson et al., 2010).</p>
<h3><strong>3. Monitor Body Condition Closely</strong></h3>
<p>Body condition score (BCS) is one of the best predictors of reproductive success. Research from Oklahoma State University found that cows calving in a BCS of 5 or greater achieved significantly higher pregnancy rates than cows in poorer condition (Selk et al., 1988).</p>
<p>A cow that calves in poor condition often requires additional time to resume estrous cycles after calving. This delay can result in open cows, later-born calves, and reduced profitability. For spring-calving herds, maintaining cows in a BCS of 5 to 6 remains one of the most effective strategies for improving reproductive performance.</p>
<h3><strong>4. Use Crossbreeding to Capture Heterosis</strong></h3>
<p>Crossbreeding remains one of the few management practices that can improve performance without increasing inputs.</p>
<p>According to long-term research conducted by the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, heterosis can increase calf weaning weights by approximately 5 percent while improving cow longevity, pregnancy rates, and calf survival. In some systems, crossbred cows have been shown to wean up to 25 percent more lifetime calf weight than straightbred cows due to improvements in both reproduction and longevity (Cundiff and Gregory, 1999).</p>
<p>For commercial cow-calf producers, crossbreeding continues to be one of the most economical ways to improve productivity.</p>
<h3><strong>5. Keep Meaningful Records</strong></h3>
<p>Many producers believe recordkeeping requires sophisticated software, but valuable information can be collected with simple systems. Tracking calving dates, weaning weights, pregnancy status, and health records allows producers to identify both top-performing and underperforming animals.</p>
<figure id="attachment_13291" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-13291" style="width: 450px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-13291 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Bull in Washington County. Photo taken 04-14-25." width="450" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/files/2026/06/033840-scaled.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-13291" class="wp-caption-text">Bull in Washington County. Photo Credit: UFIFAS 04-14-25.</figcaption></figure>
<p>Studies examining benchmarking programs across beef operations consistently show that producers who use performance records make more effective culling, replacement, and marketing decisions.</p>
<p>The phrase “you can’t manage what you don’t measure” remains especially true in the cattle industry.</p>
<h3><strong>6. Invest in Bull Selection</strong></h3>
<p>A single bull can influence the genetics of dozens of calves each year. Because half of every calf’s genetic makeup comes from the sire, bull selection has a tremendous impact on herd performance.</p>
<p>Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) provide producers with tools to evaluate traits such as calving ease, growth, carcass merit, and maternal performance. Research by the Beef Improvement Federation has demonstrated that genetic progress occurs more rapidly through sire selection than through any other single management decision because one bull influences so many offspring.</p>
<h3><strong>7. Maintain a Comprehensive Herd Health Program</strong></h3>
<p>Preventive health programs are generally far less expensive than treating disease outbreaks.</p>
<p>Vaccination programs, parasite control, and regular veterinary involvement improve herd performance and reduce production losses. The USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) has reported substantial economic losses associated with respiratory disease and internal parasites in beef cattle. Calves experiencing respiratory disease often exhibit reduced average daily gain and lower feedlot performance later in life.</p>
<p>A strong veterinarian-client-patient relationship also helps producers remain compliant with changing regulations regarding animal health products and prescription medications.</p>
<h3><strong>8. Manage Pastures to Avoid Overgrazing</strong></h3>
<figure id="attachment_13297" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-13297" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-13297 size-medium lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="DeLuca preserve prairie landscape. Photo Credit: UFIFAS " width="300" height="151" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/files/2026/06/025231-300x151.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-13297" class="wp-caption-text">DeLuca preserve landscape. Photo Credit: UFIFAS 08-12-21</figcaption></figure>
<p>Pasture management is often overlooked when discussing cow-calf profitability. However, forage represents the least expensive source of nutrients available to most beef operations.</p>
<p>Research from the University of Florida and other land-grant institutions has shown that overstocking reduces forage persistence, decreases carrying capacity over time, and often increases supplemental feed costs. Proper stocking rates improve forage utilization while helping maintain pasture productivity and soil health.</p>
<h3><strong><br />
9. Pay Attention to Cull Cow Marketing</strong></h3>
<p>Cull cows typically account for 15 to 25 percent of annual cow-calf revenue and may contribute even more during periods of strong cattle prices (Peel, Oklahoma State University).</p>
<p>Marketing cows before they become excessively thin, lame, or unsound can substantially increase their value. Studies have shown that modest improvements in body condition prior to sale can significantly increase cull cow value, often generating returns that exceed feeding costs.</p>
<h3><strong>10. Focus on the Fundamentals</strong></h3>
<p>The cattle industry continually offers new technologies, products, and management systems. While innovation has value, the most profitable operations often excel at the basics.</p>
<p>Good nutrition, sound genetics, effective health programs, reproductive efficiency, and disciplined culling remain the foundation of successful cow-calf production. Research from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s Integrated Resource Management programs has repeatedly found that high-profit herds consistently perform well in these fundamental areas regardless of herd size.</p>
<figure id="attachment_13293" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-13293" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-13293 size-medium lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Cattle grazing at sunrise in the morning fog. UF/IFAS Photo: Thomas Wright." width="300" height="200" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/files/2026/06/010801-300x200.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-13293" class="wp-caption-text">Cattle grazing at sunrise in the morning fog. UF/IFAS Photo: Thomas Wright.</figcaption></figure>
<h3><strong>Final Thoughts</strong></h3>
<p>There is no single practice that guarantees success in the cow-calf business. Instead, profitability is usually the result of many small management decisions made correctly over time. The recommendations outlined by Dr. Todd Thrift emphasize practices that improve reproductive efficiency, increase calf performance, and strengthen long-term herd productivity. When combined with sound economic decision-making, these management principles can help producers position their operations for continued success in an increasingly competitive industry.</p>
<h4><strong>References</strong></h4>
<p>Cundiff, L.V., and K.E. Gregory. 1999. What is Systematic Crossbreeding? U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, USDA-ARS.</p>
<p>Funston, R.N., D.J. Larson, and K.A. Vonnahme. 2012. Effects of maternal nutrition on conceptus growth and offspring performance. Journal of Animal Science 90(E-Suppl): E30-E45.</p>
<p>Patterson, D.J., M.F. Smith, and colleagues. 2010. Beef Reproduction Task Force Heifer Development Guidelines. University of Missouri Extension.</p>
<p>Peel, D.S. 2023. Cull Cow Marketing Strategies and Economics. Oklahoma State University Extension.</p>
<p>Selk, G.E., R.P. Wettemann, K.S. Lusby, J.W. Oltjen, S.L. Mobley, R.J. Rasby, and J.C. Garmendia. 1988. Relationships among weight change, body condition and reproductive performance of range beef cows. Journal of Animal Science 66:3153-3159.</p>
<p>USDA-APHIS. National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS). Beef Cow-Calf Health and Management Practices Reports.</p>
<p>Beef Improvement Federation. 2024. Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs.</p>
<p>National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Integrated Resource Management Program Publications.</p>


Todd Thrift speaking at the Beef Teaching Unit (BTU).
Photo Credit: UFIFAS 12-06-22.
The cattle business is full of decisions!
Some have a small impact, while others influence herd productivity and profitability for years. During a presentation on applied cow-calf management systems, University of Florida Animal Sciences professor Dr. Todd Thrift outlined several management practices that consistently separate successful operations from average ones. While every ranch is different, research and industry experience suggest that focusing on a few key areas can generate substantial returns.


A controlled calving season remains one of the most effective management tools available to cow-calf producers. Concentrated calving seasons simplify nutrition programs, vaccination schedules, breeding management, and marketing decisions.
Research has consistently shown that herds with shorter calving seasons produce more uniform calf crops and allow producers to identify open or late-breeding cows more effectively. Cows that calve during the first 21 days of the calving season generally wean calves that are 30 to 50 pounds heavier than calves born later simply because they are older at weaning (Funston et al., 2012). Early-calving cows also tend to remain in the herd longer and produce more pounds of calf over their lifetime.
2. Develop Heifers to Calve at Two Years of Age
Calves. Photo Credit: UFIFAS 03-05-25.
Replacement heifers represent a significant investment, and delaying first calving reduces lifetime productivity. Numerous studies have demonstrated that heifers calving as two-year-olds generally produce more calves over their lifetime than females that enter production later.
The Beef Reproduction Task Force recommends developing replacement heifers to reach approximately 60 to 65 percent of their expected mature body weight by the start of the breeding season. Research indicates that females bred successfully as yearlings tend to have greater lifetime productivity and longevity than those that calve later (Patterson et al., 2010).
3. Monitor Body Condition Closely
Body condition score (BCS) is one of the best predictors of reproductive success. Research from Oklahoma State University found that cows calving in a BCS of 5 or greater achieved significantly higher pregnancy rates than cows in poorer condition (Selk et al., 1988).
A cow that calves in poor condition often requires additional time to resume estrous cycles after calving. This delay can result in open cows, later-born calves, and reduced profitability. For spring-calving herds, maintaining cows in a BCS of 5 to 6 remains one of the most effective strategies for improving reproductive performance.
4. Use Crossbreeding to Capture Heterosis
Crossbreeding remains one of the few management practices that can improve performance without increasing inputs.
According to long-term research conducted by the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, heterosis can increase calf weaning weights by approximately 5 percent while improving cow longevity, pregnancy rates, and calf survival. In some systems, crossbred cows have been shown to wean up to 25 percent more lifetime calf weight than straightbred cows due to improvements in both reproduction and longevity (Cundiff and Gregory, 1999).
For commercial cow-calf producers, crossbreeding continues to be one of the most economical ways to improve productivity.
5. Keep Meaningful Records
Many producers believe recordkeeping requires sophisticated software, but valuable information can be collected with simple systems. Tracking calving dates, weaning weights, pregnancy status, and health records allows producers to identify both top-performing and underperforming animals.
Bull in Washington County. Photo Credit: UFIFAS 04-14-25.
Studies examining benchmarking programs across beef operations consistently show that producers who use performance records make more effective culling, replacement, and marketing decisions.
The phrase “you can’t manage what you don’t measure” remains especially true in the cattle industry.
6. Invest in Bull Selection
A single bull can influence the genetics of dozens of calves each year. Because half of every calf’s genetic makeup comes from the sire, bull selection has a tremendous impact on herd performance.
Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) provide producers with tools to evaluate traits such as calving ease, growth, carcass merit, and maternal performance. Research by the Beef Improvement Federation has demonstrated that genetic progress occurs more rapidly through sire selection than through any other single management decision because one bull influences so many offspring.
7. Maintain a Comprehensive Herd Health Program
Preventive health programs are generally far less expensive than treating disease outbreaks.
Vaccination programs, parasite control, and regular veterinary involvement improve herd performance and reduce production losses. The USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) has reported substantial economic losses associated with respiratory disease and internal parasites in beef cattle. Calves experiencing respiratory disease often exhibit reduced average daily gain and lower feedlot performance later in life.
A strong veterinarian-client-patient relationship also helps producers remain compliant with changing regulations regarding animal health products and prescription medications.
8. Manage Pastures to Avoid Overgrazing
DeLuca preserve landscape. Photo Credit: UFIFAS 08-12-21
Pasture management is often overlooked when discussing cow-calf profitability. However, forage represents the least expensive source of nutrients available to most beef operations.
Research from the University of Florida and other land-grant institutions has shown that overstocking reduces forage persistence, decreases carrying capacity over time, and often increases supplemental feed costs. Proper stocking rates improve forage utilization while helping maintain pasture productivity and soil health.


Cull cows typically account for 15 to 25 percent of annual cow-calf revenue and may contribute even more during periods of strong cattle prices (Peel, Oklahoma State University).
Marketing cows before they become excessively thin, lame, or unsound can substantially increase their value. Studies have shown that modest improvements in body condition prior to sale can significantly increase cull cow value, often generating returns that exceed feeding costs.
10. Focus on the Fundamentals
The cattle industry continually offers new technologies, products, and management systems. While innovation has value, the most profitable operations often excel at the basics.
Good nutrition, sound genetics, effective health programs, reproductive efficiency, and disciplined culling remain the foundation of successful cow-calf production. Research from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s Integrated Resource Management programs has repeatedly found that high-profit herds consistently perform well in these fundamental areas regardless of herd size.
Cattle grazing at sunrise in the morning fog. UF/IFAS Photo: Thomas Wright.
Final Thoughts
There is no single practice that guarantees success in the cow-calf business. Instead, profitability is usually the result of many small management decisions made correctly over time. The recommendations outlined by Dr. Todd Thrift emphasize practices that improve reproductive efficiency, increase calf performance, and strengthen long-term herd productivity. When combined with sound economic decision-making, these management principles can help producers position their operations for continued success in an increasingly competitive industry.
References
Cundiff, L.V., and K.E. Gregory. 1999. What is Systematic Crossbreeding? U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, USDA-ARS.
Funston, R.N., D.J. Larson, and K.A. Vonnahme. 2012. Effects of maternal nutrition on conceptus growth and offspring performance. Journal of Animal Science 90(E-Suppl): E30-E45.
Patterson, D.J., M.F. Smith, and colleagues. 2010. Beef Reproduction Task Force Heifer Development Guidelines. University of Missouri Extension.
Peel, D.S. 2023. Cull Cow Marketing Strategies and Economics. Oklahoma State University Extension.
Selk, G.E., R.P. Wettemann, K.S. Lusby, J.W. Oltjen, S.L. Mobley, R.J. Rasby, and J.C. Garmendia. 1988. Relationships among weight change, body condition and reproductive performance of range beef cows. Journal of Animal Science 66:3153-3159.
USDA-APHIS. National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS). Beef Cow-Calf Health and Management Practices Reports.
Beef Improvement Federation. 2024. Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs.
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Integrated Resource Management Program Publications.

The cattle business is full of decisions! Some have a small impact, while others influence herd productivity and profitability for years. During a presentation on applied cow-calf management systems, University of Florida Animal Sciences professor Dr. Todd Thrift outlined several management practices that consistently separate successful operations from average ones. While every ranch is different, […]

Ten Cow-Calf Management Decisions That Pay Dividends

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UF/IFAS Photo by Cristina Carrizosa U/IFAS Communications 2020

Cattle

Ganado

Bulls

Toros

Caution - manage to prevent escape. May be recommended by IFAS. Will be reassessed in two years.

Predicted to be invasive and not recommended by IFAS. Will be reassessed every 10 years. In particular cases, this species may be considered for use under specific management practices that have been approved by the IFAS Invasive Plant Working Group.

Invasive and not recommended by IFAS. Will be reassessed every 10 years. Specified and limited uses may be considered by the IFAS Invasive Plants Working Group.

Invasive and not recommended by IFAS. Will be reassessed every 10 years. Specified and limited uses may be considered by the IFAS Invasive Plants Working Group

Low Risk for invasion, therefore Not considered a problem species at this time. May be recommended by IFAS. Reassessed every 10 years.

This species was evaluated with the Predictive Tool and received an intermediate score (1-6).  The Secondary Screening was implemented, but not enough information was available to reach a conclusion.

Not considered a problem species at this time. May be recommended by IFAS. Reassessed every 10 years.

Prohibited from use in Florida according to the Federal Noxious Weed List, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) 5B-64.011 Prohibited Aquatic Plants, or FDACS 5B-57.007 Noxious Weed List.

Bulls

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Ten Cow-Calf Management Decisions That Pay Dividends