The Future Of Calf Conception
Better Calves. Greater Predictability. Best Price.
Artificial insemination, or AI, is of course the veterinary procedure of administering semen to cows. There are a number of things that elevate this method of conception above the use of a physical bull. Most notably, more cows are impregnated per attempt with AI than a bull. Specific values vary among research institutions, but the basic conclusion is nearly always in favor of AI. A major reason for this is estrous synchronization, whereby we are able to bring cattle into heat using hormones.
Another major benefit that comes from estrous synchronization and AI is the fact you have a nearly exact idea of when you can expect birth. You can essentially decide precisely when you would like to birth calves . These predictably birthed calves are also likely to have a better genetic makeup than you’d receive otherwise. Why? You have the ability to choose the semen from a wide variety of bulls using recorded EPD information. At this point, you’re probably thinking, “Ok, but what’s it gonna cost?”
Great news! It is actually less expensive to artificially breed your herd than to use/own a bull. Think about it. Let’s say you buy a bull for $4,000. With interest, feed, etc., we’ll say it costs you $600/year to maintain him for three years. After the three years you send him slaughter for an estimated value of $1,500. At this point, you are out $4,300. Even if the bull successfully breeds 25 cows, the cost is still $57/cow. This is best case scenario as not all cows will wean a calf, and not all bulls will breed three seasons.