Size of Calves at Weaning as a Permanent Characteristic of Range Hereford Cows

Abstract

The extent to which the weaning weight of the calf is a permanent characteristic of its dam is an important part of the problem of selecting cows to improve their productivity. Repeatability of weaning weight is needed to compare fairly the producing abilities of cows which have had different numbers of calves. The younger the cow when her producing ability can be known accurately, the more efficient the selection can be. The weaning weight of the calf is a useful measure of a cow's yearly production, since this observation is taken at the end of the period over which she exerts maximum influence on the growth of the calf. Many range calves are sold at or shortly after weaning and their weight determines to a large extent the amount the owner receives.