1. Beef Cattle

2. BEFORE THE 1960’s… Approximately 20 different breeds were available in the United States. Today, there are over 70 breeds found in the United States. The development of the feedlot industry created the catalyst for the increase in the number of breeds.

3. WHAT’S A COMPOSITE? A composite breed is developed from two or more previously established breeds. Examples would include: Santa Gertrudis (Longhorn X Shorthorn) Brangus (Brahman X Angus) Braford (Brahman X Hereford)

4. Ancestry Bos indicus- humped cattle, developed in tropical countries Bos taurus- humpless cattle, developed in more temperate zones.

5. Traits of Economic Importance Polled vs. horned Color Carcass traits Performance and efficiency Maternal traits Temperament Age at puberty Calving ease

6. Types of Cattle Operations Purebred Registered cow-calf Provide range bulls Improve genetics

7. Commercial Cow-Calf Calves for stocker and feeder operations Replacement females Stocker Operations Provides cattle for feedlots Replacement Heifers

8. Feeder Operations Commercial / farm feeders Finish cattle for slaughter Supply beef packers

9. Calf to Market Calving Dependent on grass season Usually fall or spring Gestation length 283 days (approximately 9 months) Weaners 5-8 months old 400-700 lbs

10. Stocker Cattle 400-900 lbs 1.5-2 lbs average daily gain Generally gain 250-400 lbs Feedlot 100-200 days 1000-1200 lbs Average daily gain 3-4 lbs Efficiency 5-9 lbs feed/lb gain