Feedlot Performance

Pen after pen of black calves look nice in the feedyard, but research shows that the hide color is just a start. The more high-quality Angus genetics those black hides can cover, the better.

Iowa State University Tri-County Steer Carcass Futurity* data on nearly 10,000 head indicate high-percentage Angus cattle returned $67.93 per head more than cattle that were 25% or less Angus.

That’s mostly because of higher average daily gains and carcass merit.

A 2009 update of the analysis, reflecting data on 30,000 head, shows Angus genetics dramatically increase quality grade potential:

• Straightbred Angus cattle had more than three times the amount of CAB qualifiers when compared to those with less than a quarter Angus breeding, 27.3% vs. 8.9%.

Those high-percentage Angus cattle stayed healthier, had higher average daily gains (ADGs) and spent less time on feed (see chart).

*Tri-County Steer Carcass Futurity data from 30,000 head on feed, 2002-2009