Dairy farmers have traditionally grappled with the challenge of dealing with surplus male dairy calves, often sold at low prices. Research has revealed a significant increase in the use of beef sires with dairy cows, particularly between 2015 and 2019. Notably, the application of beef semen has risen, especially with increasing parity and service numbers, while the use of sexed semen has declined with rising parity and service numbers. This suggests that sexed semen is more aggressively applied in younger, genetically superior and highly fertile cows, leading to a substantial reduction in unwanted male calves.
The combination of sexed semen and terminal beef crossbreeding has proven highly profitable, resulting in crossbred offspring with excellent carcass and meat qualities – appealing to consumers. Crossbreeding to beef sires is a powerful management tool at the dairy farmer’s disposal using superior sexed dairy semen for heifers and beef semen for cows. This combination can significantly impact a herd’s genetics and overall net return.
A study recently conducted in Europe suggested that the net returns were $19 per cow when sexed semen was used on genetically superior heifers and beef semen on genetically inferior, multiparous cows. This increase was observed in herds with high management standards for reproductive performance, longevity and calf survival.
Choosing the right beef breed
The Angus breed stands as the most prevalent choice in the U.S. with 55.1% and 39.1% for Holstein and Jersey crosses, respectively. The breed excels in terms of calving ease, making it an ideal choice for producers seeking trouble-free freshening, particularly in smaller dairy breeds or primiparous cows. However, this same lower birthweight may affect the price of day-old beef-on-dairy calves. Crossbreds demonstrate strong performance concerning yearling growth with high marbling, resulting in top-quality beef.
Continue reading this article published in Progressive Dairy.
