Journal of NACAA

Using GPS Technology and Parentage Testing in Rangeland Beef Breeding Systems to Evaluate Bull Power

ISSN 2158-9429

Volume 15, Issue 2 - December 2022

Editor: Linda Chalker-Scott

Abstract

The objective of this study was to utilize GPS technology and parentage testing to provide a more accurate measurement of bull power. Our study fit 5 bulls from the same herd with GPS collars. Bull movement was tracked over a 90-day breeding season. The collars collected measurements of total distance traveled per day. Upon completion of the breeding season, collars were removed, and data retrieved. DNA samples were also collected from the bulls. At calving, biological material of 104 calves was collected and compared with the bull samples to determine parentage. Parentage testing revealed that 6 bulls sired calves during the 2018 breeding season. The ranch’s bulls sired 72 calves. Thirty-two calves were sired by a bull from herds that grazed in a nearby pasture.

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