The percentage of open beef cows this fall and winter is up compared to past years. In fact, many livestock auction barns in the region have reported more cows being sold this year that didn’t breed back. SDSU Extension Veterinarian Dr. Russ Daly says the cause of the reproductive failure is hard to pinpoint but may be linked to increased stress last winter.
However, Daly says the breed back problems in the cattle herd are often linked to a combination of issues.
Daly says when there is a major train wreck and more than 50% of the herd pregnancy checks open it is usually linked to the male.
He says producers need to work with their local veterinarian to identify the possible causes and take preventative steps for the next breeding season.
