Collection Guidelines booklet by Angus Australia

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN

Angus Australia

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN Contents Collecting Important Animal Information.............................................................4 Collecting Calving Difficulty Scores........................................................................6 Collecting Gestation Length..................................................................................7 Collecting Birth Weights........................................................................................8 Collecting 200 Day Weights...................................................................................9 Collecting 400 Day Weights.................................................................................10 Collecting 600 Day Weights.................................................................................11 Collecting Mature Cow Weights..........................................................................12 Collecting Scrotal Circumference Measurements...............................................13 Collecting Days to Calving Information................................................................14 Collecting Live Animal Ultrasound Scanning Information...................................16 Collecting Abattoir Carcase Information.............................................................18 Collecting Docility Information............................................................................23 Collecting Structural Soundness Scores..............................................................24 Recording Management Groups.........................................................................26 Collecting Genomic Information.........................................................................27 Submitting Data for Angus BREEDPLAN..............................................................29 3

Collecting Important Animal Information Important information for the calculation of Angus BREEDPLAN EBVs is collected when animals are registered with Angus Australia. • Pedigree: the sire and dam that is recorded for an animal has a large impact on the EBVs that are calculated for not only the animal, but its progeny and grand progeny. It is essential that the sire and dam specified for an animal is accurate. If there is any doubt as to who the correct sire and dam is, DNA parentage verification should be conducted.

• Sex: sex is used to form contemporary groups within the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis, with only the performance of calves of the same sex (i.e. males, females) being directly compared together. Care should be taken to ensure that the sex recorded for each animal is accurate, and any errors that are identified immediately corrected.

While not submitted in associated with animal registrations, it is important to clearly identify any animals that have been castrated when submitting performance information to Angus Australia. Angus BREEDPLAN can calculate EBVs for animals without pedigree information (e.g. base animals), however the EBVs will be of lower accuracy.

• Birth Date: birth date is used within the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis to adjust for differences in the age of the animals at the time of measurement, and to form contemporary groups. Animals should be checked daily during calving and the birth date of each calf recorded.

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• Birth Number: birth number is used to form contemporary groups within the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis, with only the performance of calves of the same birth number (i.e. singles, twins, triplets) being directly compared together. The birth number for all calves should be accurately recorded.

Management groups should be submitted in association with the performance for any calves from a multiple birth who are subsequently raised as a single calf in order to clearly differentiate them from calves who are raised as multiples. • Breed: breed is used within the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis to adjust for any differences in the performance of animals that can be attributed to heterosis. While breed is automatically assigned to the majority of animals based on the breed information that is recorded on the Angus Australia database for their sire and dam, care should be taken to accurately record breed information when recording “base” (i.e. animals with an unknown parent) or “overseas” animals.

The breed information that is recorded for “base” or “overseas” animals is used to calculate the breed of any descendants that are recorded with Angus Australia, which will subsequently influence how the performance of these descendants is analysed within Angus BREEDPLAN. • Mating Type: mating type is used to form contemporary groups within Angus BREEDPLAN, with the performance of calves from natural and AI matings, and the performance from embryo transfer programs being analysed in separate contemporary groups. Care should be taken to ensure the mating type recorded for each animal is accurate.

• Overseas Society Ident: the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis combines information recorded with both the Angus Australia and Angus New Zealand breed organisations, while also incorporating EPD information from a number of North American genetic evaluations. When recording overseas animals with Angus Australia, care should be taken to ensure the ident of the animal with the overseas breed organisation is recorded on the Angus Australia database.

• Recipient Dam Details: the breed and birth year of the recipient dam is used within Angus BREEDPLAN to account for any differences in the performance of embryo transfer calves that can be attributed to differences in the maternal contribution from the recipient. Care should be taken to ensure recipient dam information, particularly breed and birth year is accurately recorded. If recipient dam information is not recorded, the performance of embryo transfer calves will not be analysed within the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis. • Country of Origin: the country of origin is used to assist with the calculation of “starting EBVs” for base or overseas animals. The country of origin should be accurately recorded for all base or overseas animals.

If the overseas society ident is not accurately recorded for an animal, information for animals recorded with both Angus Australia and New Zealand Angus may not be combined appropriately, and EPD information may not be used to appropriately assign the “starting” EBVs for animals imported from North America.

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 5

Collecting Calving Difficulty Scores Calving difficulty scores, in association with birth weight and gestation length information, are used to calculate Calving Ease Direct and Calving Ease Daughters EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN. Calving difficulty should be measured at or shortly following birth by visually scoring the degree of calving difficulty on the following scale of 1 - 6. If females are regularly checked during calving (e.g. on a daily basis), it is reasonable to assume that a calf who has been born without assistance between visits can be scored as unassisted (no difficulty) even though the calving was not observed. Score

Code

Unassisted

Easy Pull

Description Cow calved unassisted / No difficulty One person without mechanical assistance Two people without mechanical assistance

Hard Pull

Surgical Assistance

Veterinary intervention required

Mal-presentation

e.g. Breech

Elective surgical

Surgical removal of calf before the cow has the opportunity to calve

One person with mechanical assistance

* Note that a blank score will not be interpreted as “unassisted”. Instead, it indicates that calving difficulty was not scored

Blank or 0 is interpreted as no score recorded rather than “no difficulty”.

T ◊Calving difficulty scores should be recorded for the whole calf drop. Collecting “occasional” scores, or only collecting calving difficulty scores for a subset of calves is of no value and can lead to the calculation of biased Calving Ease EBVs.

◊Record calving difficulty scores for all calves rather

than just difficult or easy births. Recording calving difficulty scores for dead calves is particularly important.

◊There needs to be some level of calving difficulty in

the herd for the scores to be used effectively in the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis. That is, simply scoring all births in a herd with a calving difficulty score of [1] will not identify any genetic differences in ease of calving.

◊A birth management group should be recorded

if there are different treatments of the females prior to calving that may affect calving difficulty. For example, where one group of cows have had different feed availability, or where the level of calving difficulty has been affected by special circumstances (e.g. premature calves, the dam was sick etc.)

◊A calving difficulty score of [2] should be allocated

where calves are born unassisted but some degree of calving difficulty is evident. For example, stillborn calves where the head is swollen and it is obvious the calf has died as a result of a difficult calving.

◊When calculating the Calving Ease EBVs, calving difficulty scores of [3] and [4] are grouped together. Calving difficulty scores [5] & [6] are excluded from the BREEDPLAN analysis as the problems are considered non-genetic in origin.

◊In addition to calving difficulty scores, birth weight

and gestation length information is also included in the calculation of Calving Ease EBVs. Breeders wishing to optimise the accuracy of their Calving Ease EBVs should also consider collecting this information and submitting it to BREEDPLAN.

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Collecting Gestation Length Gestation length information is used to calculate Gestation Length EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN. Angus BREEDPLAN will calculate Gestation Length EBVs based on the joining and birth records for calves conceived by either artificial insemination (AI) or hand mating.

T ◊Gestation length information should only be submitted for calves conceived by either AI or hand mating. Hand mating refers to situations where the female is given limited exposure to a bull (e.g. in a yard), mating occurs, and then the bull is removed.

◊No information from natural paddock matings is

Information needed for the calculation of Gestation Length EBVs includes:

used in the calculation of Gestation Length EBVs. Although some natural matings may be observed, they are not currently used in the calculation of gestation length as there is no guarantee that the observed mating is the one that successfully results in the conception of the calf.

◊Gestation length information should be recorded the joining (or AI) date of any calves conceived by AI or hand mating

the date of birth for each calf

Gestation length for each calf does not need to be recorded. Angus BREEDPLAN will calculate the gestation length from the joining date and date of birth information that is submitted.

for all calves conceived via AI or hand mating in a calf drop. Only submitting gestation length information for a subset of calves is of no value and may result in biased Gestation Length EBVs.

◊A birth management group should be recorded if there are different treatments of the females prior to calving that may affect gestation length. For example, where one group of cows have had different feed availability. Likewise, a separate birth management group should be assigned for any premature calves, or calves whose gestation length has been affected by special circumstances. (e.g. the dam was sick).

◊Gestation length information is currently excluded from the BREEDPLAN analysis if (a) the calf is an embryo transfer calf, (b) the calf is a twin, (c) only one animal is represented in a contemporary group, or (d) more than 2/3 of animals in a contemporary group have the same gestation length.

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 7

Collecting Birth Weights The weights of calves taken shortly following birth are used to calculate Birth Weight EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN.

How do you record birth weights?

Many different methods are used to collect calf birth weight. These range from using bathroom scales through to the use of commercially available calf weighing cradles that can be attached to the tray of a utility or the front of a four wheel motorbike.

Unacceptable methods

Birth weights collected using the following methods are not appropriate for submission to BREEDPLAN:

?? ? Visual estimates or “guesses”

A few examples of birth weighing devices include: • hand held weigh scales • calf cradle mounted on a quad bike or trailer • calf crate suspended from a utility

Use of chest or girth tapes

When should calves be weighed?

The weight of a calf fluctuates throughout the first week of its life. It is therefore important to weigh calves as close to birth as possible. When recording the birth weight of calves, it is important that accurate birth weights are collected using appropriate weighing scales.

Use of coronet band tapes

T ◊Birth weights should be recorded for the whole calf drop. Collecting “occasional” measurements, or only collecting birth weights for a subset of calves is of no value and can actually be misleading.

◊Recording birth weight for dead calves is particularly important.

◊A birth management group should be recorded if

there are different treatments of the females prior to calving that may affect birth weight.

For example, where one group of cows have had different feed availability. A separate birth management group should also be assigned if the weight of the calf has been affected by special circumstances (e.g. premature calves, the dam was sick etc.).

◊Some breeders have been injured by protective Ideally, birth weight should be recorded within 24 hours of birth, and no greater than 48 hours after birth.

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cows while weighing calves. It is important to take due care when collecting this information. A number of agricultural supply stores are now offering calf catching equipment that is designed to improve safety.

Collecting 200 Day Weights Live weights taken on calves when the average age of the contemporary group is between 80 and 300 days of age are used to calculate both 200 Day Growth EBVs and Milk EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN.

Recording 200 day weights

All weights should be recorded using appropriate (and accurate) scales. Do not guess/estimate weight or use measuring tapes to calculate weight. Either weigh the calves using appropriate scales or don’t record weights. Weights should be recorded to the nearest kilogram.

When should 200 day weights be collected?

The 200 day weight for a calf needs to be recorded when the average age of their contemporary group is between 80 and 300 days of age.

T ◊200 day weights should be collected for all animals in a contemporary group. Only recording 200 day weights for a subset of calves is of no value and can lead to biased 200 Day Growth EBVs.

◊All calves in a contemporary group should be

weighed on the same day. Angus BREEDPLAN will not directly compare the 200 day weights of calves that have been weighed on different days. Similarly, any subsequent performance for calves weighed on different days at 200 days will also be analysed in separate groups (e.g. 400 day weights, ultrasound scanning measurements).

◊200 day weights should be collected when animals are in as large a group as possible. Consequently, try to collect 200 day weights before any of the calves in a management group are treated differently. For example, before some bulls are castrated at marking or the show team is separated from the rest of the contemporary group.

Within this age range, a date should be chosen that fits in with normal, routine management practices (e.g. weaning) and is reasonably close to when the average age of the group of calves is 200 days of age. Angus BREEDPLAN provides suggested weigh dates to assist you when making this decision.

◊There is no requirement to curfew or “empty out”

If particularly looking to optimise the quality of Milk EBVs, 200 day weights should be collected at or before weaning. Likewise, if a significant number of cows have weaned calves naturally (i.e. have “dried off”) before the calves are “physically” weaned, then it may be beneficial to consider taking an early weight on all calves.

◊A management group should be recorded for

Calves do not need to be weighed when they are all individually 200 days of age on the day of weighing, but rather the whole contemporary group weighed when the average age of the group is approximately 200 days (i.e. 6 – 7 months).

calves prior to weighing for Angus BREEDPLAN. Care however should be taken to ensure that the weights of some calves are not unduly affected by significant differences in the length of time off feed and water prior to weighing. any animals that have been treated differently or exposed to significant non-genetic influences prior to measurement that may affect their 200 day weight. For example, the 200 day weights of calves given a supplement should be recorded in a different management group to those without a supplement. Consideration should also be given to variations in pasture quality, stocking rates, water quality, animal health, injury etc.

◊Angus BREEDPLAN can analyse two 200 day weights

on each animal. Generally speaking, it is only necessary to record one weight, however in some circumstances, recording more than one weight will improve the accuracy of the 200 Day Growth EBVs. For example, when early weaning is practiced, it may be beneficial to take an early weight at the time of weaning, and a subsequent weight when calves have reached 200 days of age.

◊Consideration should be given to also collecting Weigh when the average age of the group, rather than each individual animal, is 200 days

docility scores, calf DNA samples, and mature cow weights in association with the collection of 200 day weight measurements.

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 9

Collecting 400 Day Weights Live weights taken on animals when the average age of the contemporary group is between 301 and 500 days of age are used to calculate 400 Day Weight EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN.

weights of some animals are not unduly affected by significant differences in the length of time off feed and water prior to weighing.

◊A management group should be recorded for

Recording 400 day weights

All weights should be recorded using appropriate (and accurate) scales. Do not guess/estimate weight or use measuring tapes to calculate weight. Either weigh the animals using appropriate scales or don't record weights. Weights should be recorded to the nearest kilogram.

When should 400 day weights be collected?

any animals that have been treated differently or exposed to significant non-genetic influences since weighing at 200 days that may affect their 400 day weight. For example, the 400 day weights of animals given a supplement should be recorded in a different management group to those without a supplement. Consideration should also be given to variations in pasture quality, stocking rates, water quality, animal health, injury etc.

The 400 day weight for an animal needs to be recorded when the average age of their contemporary group is between 301 and 500 days of age.

◊Angus BREEDPLAN can analyse two 400 day weights

Within this age range, a date should be chosen that fits in with normal, routine management practices and is reasonably close to when the average age of the group of animals is 400 days of age. Angus BREEDPLAN provides suggested weigh dates to assist you when making this decision.

◊Consideration should be given to also collecting

on each animal. Generally speaking, it is only necessary to record one weight, however in some circumstances, recording more than one weight will improve the accuracy of the 400 Day Weight EBVs.

live animal ultrasound scanning and scrotal circumference measurements in association with the collection of 400 day weight information.

Animals do not need to be weighed when they are all individually 400 days of age on the day of weighing, but rather the whole contemporary group weighed when the average age of the group is approximately 400 days (i.e. 13 – 14 months).

T ◊400 day weights should be collected for all animals in a contemporary group. Only recording 400 day weights for a subset of animals is of no value and can lead to biased 400 Day Weight EBVs.

◊All animals in a contemporary group should be

weighed on the same day. Angus BREEDPLAN will not directly compare the 400 day weights of animals that have been weighed on different days. Similarly, any subsequent performance for animals weighed on different days at 400 days will also be analysed in separate groups (e.g. 600 day weights, ultrasound scanning measurements).

◊400 day weights should be collected when animals are in as large a group as possible. Consequently, try to collect 400 day weights before any of the animals in a management group are treated differently. For example, before some bulls are joined, or females separated into different groups for joining.

◊There is no requirement to curfew or “empty out”

animals prior to weighing for Angus BREEDPLAN. Care however should be taken to ensure that the

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Use appropriate and accurate scales

Collecting 600 Day Weights Live weights taken on animals when the average age of the contemporary group is between 501 and 900 days of age are used to calculate 600 Day Weight EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN.

Recording 600 day weights

All weights should be recorded using appropriate (and accurate) scales. Do not guess/estimate weight or use measuring tapes to calculate weight. Either weigh the animals using appropriate scales or don’t record weights. Weights should be recorded to the nearest kilogram.

◊600 day weights should be collected for all animals in a contemporary group. Only recording 600 day weights for a subset of animals is of no value and can lead to biased 600 Day Weight EBVs.

◊All animals in a contemporary group should be

weighed on the same day. Angus BREEDPLAN will not directly compare the 600 day weights of animals that have been weighed on different days.

◊600 day weights should be collected when animals are in as large a group as possible. Consequently, try to collect 600 day weights before any of the animals in a management group are treated differently.

When should 600 day weights be collected?

The 600 day weight for an animal needs to be recorded when the average age of their contemporary group is between 501 and 900 days of age. Within this age range, a date should be chosen that fits in with normal, routine management practices (e.g. pregnancy testing heifers) and is reasonably close to when the average age of the group of animals is 600 days of age. Angus BREEDPLAN provides suggested weigh dates to assist you when making this decision. Animals do not need to be weighed when they are all individually 600 days of age on the day of weighing, but rather the whole contemporary group weighed when the average age of the group is approximately 600 days (i.e. 20 months).

Important considerations when collecting 600 day weights for heifers

Recording 600 day weights on heifers that are in the later stages of pregnancy can cause significant bias to the 600 Day Weight EBVs that are calculated due to variation in live weight being incorrectly attributed to differences in growth genetics. The additional weight at each stage of pregnancy in an Angus heifer resulting from a 39kg calf (at birth) is outlined in the table below. Pregnancy Status (months)

Additional Weight (kg)

◊If selling bulls at 18 months of age, consideration

can be given to collecting an early 600 day weight before these bulls have been sold. Animals can be weighed for 600 Day Weight EBVs from 500 days of age onwards (ie. 16-17 months).

◊There is no requirement to curfew or “empty out”

animals prior to weighing for Angus BREEDPLAN. Care however should be taken to ensure that the weights of some animals are not unduly affected by significant differences in the length of time off feed and water prior to weighing.

◊A management group should be recorded for

any animals that have been treated differently or exposed to significant non-genetic influences since weighing at 400 days that may affect their 600 day weight. For example, the 600 day weights of animals given a supplement should be recorded in a different management group to those without a supplement. Consideration should also be given to variations in pasture quality, stocking rates, water quality, animal health, injury etc.

◊Angus BREEDPLAN can analyse two 600 day weights

on each animal. Generally speaking, it is only necessary to record one weight, however in some circumstances, recording more than one weight will improve the accuracy of the 600 Day Weight EBVs.

◊Consideration should be given to also collecting live

animal ultrasound scanning, scrotal circumference, and structural soundness measurements in association with the collection of 600 day weight information.

If heifers are being calved down at 2 years of age, as is usually the case in Angus breeding enterprises, consideration can be given to collecting 600 day weights for heifers at an earlier age (e.g. 550 days of age, or commonly pregnancy testing) when the effect of pregnancy status on weight is minimal.

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 11

Collecting Mature Cow Weights Weights recorded for cows at the same time as the 200 day weights are recorded for their calves are used to calculate Mature Cow Weight EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN. Recording mature cow weight data

Mature cow weights should be recorded using appropriate (and accurate) scales. Do not guess/estimate weight or use measuring tapes to calculate weight. Either weigh the cows using appropriate scales or don’t record weights. Mature cow weights should be recorded to the nearest kilogram.

When should mature cow weights be collected?

The mature weight for a cow needs to be recorded at the same time as the 200 day weight is taken for its calf. Angus BREEDPLAN will only analyse the weight of a mature cow if the cow has a calf with a weight recorded within 2 weeks of when the mature weight was taken and further, the calf was between 80 – 330 days of age when it was weighed.

◊Management group information should be

recorded for any cows or group of cows that have been treated differently or exposed to significant non-genetic influences prior to weighing that may affect their weight.

◊Optionally, cow condition score and hip height

information can be submitted in association with mature cow weight information. Condition score and hip height information is not currently included in the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis however this information may be used in the future when determining Mature Cow Weight EBVs. If cow condition score is collected, it is important that the standard scoring system of 1-6 is used (only whole scores) and the same person scores all cows in the herd at a particular weighing.

Management groups

◊Angus BREEDPLAN can analyse up to 4 mature

Management groups work slightly differently for mature cow weights. If no management group information is defined for a set of mature cow weights, the BREEDPLAN analysis will use the management groups submitted with the 200 day weights of their calves to sub-group the weights of the cows. Therefore, if management group information has been correctly recorded with the 200 day weight performance for the calves, then a different management group only needs to be assigned to a cow that has experienced an effect on her weight that is different to that experienced by her calf. For example, if the cow was injured or sick.

weights for each cow. Therefore, all cows with a calf at 200 days should be weighed each year. Do not try to “guess” whether a cow has had 4 weights taken previously – the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis will sort it out for you.

If both the mature cow weights and the 200 day weights for their calves are submitted without management group information, the BREEDPLAN analysis will assume all cows and calves have been run under similar management conditions.

There is no need to weigh cows that have not raised a calf to 200 days. Weights on these cows will not be analysed with the Angus BREEDPLAN genetic evaluation.

◊Management group information should be specified for any cows or groups of cows that have been managed differently in previous years where the difference in management is still considerably affecting their weight relative to other cows born in the same year. For example, cows that may not have weaned a calf in the previous year, cows that have previously been part of the show team but are now part of the main herd, or in situations where cows of the same age were calved down at different ages (e.g. 2, 2.5 and 3 years of age).

◊Mature weights should be recorded for all females

in a mob on the same day. Angus BREEDPLAN will not directly compare mature weights for cows that have been collected on different days.

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IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS Angus BREEDPLAN will only analyse mature weights for cows that are between 2.4 – 10.7 years of age (870 – 3900 days) at weighing. Angus BREEDPLAN will only analyse mature weight information for a cow if the first valid mature weight for the cow has been taken before the animal is 6 years of age (2200 days). If not, then none of the mature weights for the cow will be analysed.

Collecting Scrotal Circumference Measurements Scrotal circumference measurements taken on bulls between 300 and 700 days of age are used to calculate Scrotal Size EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN. Recording scrotal circumference measurements Scrotal circumference measurements should be recorded by pulling the testes firmly down into the lower part of the scrotum and placing a measuring tape around the widest point (as per the photo below). Scrotal circumference measurements can be taken by anyone. They do not need to be taken by an accredited technician. When measuring scrotal circumference, remember:

1 2 3 4

While measuring techniques vary slightly, it is important to use a consistent technique for the whole group of bulls. The tension applied to the measuring tape should be just sufficient to cause a slight indentation in the skin of the scrotum. Avoid placing the thumb of the hand holding the neck of the scrotum between the cords. This will cause separation of the testes and an inaccurate measurement. Appropriate (and accurate) measuring tapes should be used to collect scrotal circumference measurements.

A variety of scrotal circumference measuring devices are commercially available from agricultural supply stores or organisations such as the Australian Cattle Veterinarians. Metal scrotal measuring tapes are more reliable than cloth tapes as they are not prone to stretching.

When should scrotal circumference measurements be collected?

Angus BREEDPLAN can analyse scrotal circumference information from bulls that are between 300 – 700 days of age when measured. Subsequently, it is essential that scrotal circumference information is recorded when bulls are within this age range. It is recommended that scrotal circumference is measured when bulls are reaching puberty, which will vary according to seasonal conditions and the maturity pattern of the animals being measured. In the majority of cases, the optimum time to record scrotal circumference measurements for Angus BREEDPLAN is when bulls are being weighed at 400 days.

T ◊While more than one scrotal circumference

measurement can be recorded for an individual animal, Angus BREEDPLAN is only analysing the first measurement for each bull at this stage. Subsequently, it is only necessary to record one scrotal circumference measurement on each bull for Angus BREEDPLAN.

◊Scrotal circumference measurements should be

collected for all bulls in a mob. Only recording scrotal circumference measurements for a subset of bulls is of no value and can lead to biased Scrotal Size EBVs.

◊A management group should be recorded for

any bulls or group of bulls that have been treated differently or exposed to significant non-genetic influences prior to measurement that may affect their scrotal circumference. For example, the scrotal circumference measurements for bulls given a supplement should be recorded in a different management group to those without a supplement. Consideration should also be given to variations in pasture quality, stocking rates, water quality, etc.

◊A management group should be recorded for any bulls that have been joined prior to measurement.

◊Scrotal

circumference measurements should be recorded for all bulls in a mob on the same day. Angus BREEDPLAN will not directly compare scrotal circumference measurements collected on different days.

◊Scrotal

circumference measurements should be collected when bulls are in as large a group as possible. Consequently, try to collect scrotal circumference measurements before any of the bulls in a management group are treated differently. For example, before some bulls are joined or bulls are separated into smaller groups for ease of management.

Scrotal circumference should be recorded in centimetres (to one decimal place).

Measure the testes at their widest point Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 13

Collecting Days to Calving Information Joining details of heifers and mature cows mated in natural paddock joining programs are used to calculate Days to Calving EBVs. What to collect?

Breeders interested in the Days to Calving EBV need to record all ‘events’ associated with the natural joining of their females from the start of the mating period in each breeding season through to when the subsequent calves are born. This includes those females that have only been joined naturally within a breeding season - not those that have been included in artificial insemination/ embryo transfer programs or artificially induced to cycle prior to joining with the bull outside of such programs. Broadly, the information to be collected should include:

1 2 3

Joining details of ALL females naturally mated within the herd. Details of ALL females removed from the herd, particularly those present at joining that were no longer within the herd by the time of the subsequent calving.

All calves that are born as a result of the joinings need to be recorded with Angus Australia. Not recording all calves (including dead calves) will bias the Days to Calving EBVs that are calculated.

Female disposal

Record the date and reason for any female removed from the herd, particularly those present at the start of joining that are no longer within the herd by the time of the subsequent calving. The fate/disposal code information is critical to the Days to Calving analysis and is used to determine whether females that have a joining record but no subsequent calf should be penalised for being “culled for infertility” or not penalised because they were culled for other reasons e.g. structure, performance etc. In the future, this information may also be used as part of the calculation of a Female Longevity EBV. The codes to be used to record a female fate/disposal event are as follows:

Culled or sold Code

Description

Cast for age Sold surplus breeding female - but not code J or F Calving incident Disease Eyes (e.g. pesti, eye cancer, etc) Not in calf (i.e. failed preg test or did not calve) Genetic condition (e.g. genetic carrier) Horns Cull unjoined heifer surplus to requirements Coat Type Poor performance (e.g. poor milking, low body condition, etc) Appearance (type, colour, markings, Society standards, etc) Reproduction abnormality (e.g. freemartin, mal-formed uterus, pelvic area) Structural problem (e.g. feet, legs, navel, etc) Poor temperament Udder or teat problems Poor EBVs Calved but failed to rear calf to weaning Susceptible to parasites (ticks, buffalo fly, worms, etc

Details of ALL calves (dead or alive) that are born as a result of these joinings.

While not currently included in the Days to Calving analysis, research is now underway to determine whether details from artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET) programs could be utilised by Angus BREEDPLAN.

Joining details

Record each natural joining event to which a female (cow or heifer) is exposed within the breeding season whether this was the successful joining or not. For situations where females are joined to several bulls in a mating season, record all joinings for the female, not just the first or successful joining. For each natural joining event within the breeding season, record the bull the female was joined to, the date she was joined (‘bull in’ date) and the date the bull was removed (‘bull out’ date). Knowing the end of the joining period is important in analysing the Days to Calving trait. Record management group information to identify any cow/s within a joining group whose fertility may have been affected either prior to or during the joining program due to non-genetic factors. e.g. significantly different nutrition, sickness, injury. A maximum of three characters (letters and/or numbers) can be used to describe each management group. 14

Calf details

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C E F G H J K P Q R S T U V W X

Died or missing Code

Description

Calving incident (e.g. dystocia, prolapsed) Disease (e.g. pesti, bloat, 3 day, etc) Missing assumed dead Parasites (ticks, buffalo fly, worms, etc) Unknown cause Accident (e.g. injury, drowned, poisoned, etc)

D M X Y Z

The disposal codes submitted for the purposes of removing animals from the female inventory are not currently utilised in the calculation of Days to Calving EBVs, and likewise disposal codes submitted for the calculation of Days to Calving EBVs will not remove animals from the female inventory. Consequently, disposal codes need to be submitted in association with days to calving joining information, even if they have already been submitted in association with female inventory.

Pregnancy test results

Optionally, where pregnancy test results are available, record the date and result of the test for each female joined. This information is not currently included in the Days to Calving analysis, however it may be utilised in the future to either enhance the calculation of Days to Calving EBVs, or for the calculation of other female fertility EBVs. Pregnancy test results should be reported as: N = Not pregnant P = Pregnant A number between 3-20 (i.e. the number of weeks pregnant as advised by a qualified technician. ) Where the foetus is over 20 weeks old, a ‘P’ should be used. The joinings or fate/disposal information that is submitted in association with calf registrations or female inventory is not included in the Days to Calving analysis.

◊Collect joining details for ALL cows in the recorded

herd to accurately reflect the cow fertility in the herd. Simply recording those cows that have a calf or those cows that remain on inventory in the next year is not adequate.

◊Collect details for all maiden heifers joined – not

just the ones that calve or are added to inventory. Information on maiden heifers is very important as many herds cull heifers that do not conceive in the first year of joining. The heifers that do not calve supply as much information to the analysis as those that do calve.

◊Record the details of all joining events in which

the female was involved even if the joining was unsuccessful. For situations where females are joined to several bulls in a mating season, record all joinings for each cow and heifer within the joining period, not just the first or successful joining.

◊Accurately recording the fate/disposal codes of all

females that leave the herd is extremely important. In the Days to Calving analysis, this fate/disposal code information is used to determine whether a female should be penalised for being “culled for infertility” or not penalised because she was culled for other reasons (e.g. structure, performance etc.)

◊Joining details for females that have been joined

to multiple sire groups (rather than a single sire) should also be recorded. In this scenario, the sire ident that is specified should be the multiple sire ident, rather than the ident of the individual sire that resulted in the calf. Similarly, joining details for females mated to sires not recorded with Angus Australia (e.g. unregistered sires, sires of another breed) should also be submitted.

◊Herds with either a very wide calving spread (e.g.

cows joined all year around), several calvings each year (e.g. an autumn, winter and spring calving), or who have a high proportion of artificial breeding may have difficulty collecting joining information that is useful for the calculation of Days to Calving EBVs. Herds in such situations should contact staff at Angus Australia for further advice.

The code for natural joining events is N (Natural/Paddock mating)

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 15

Collecting Live Animal Ultrasound Scanning Information Live animal ultrasound scanning measurements, in association with abattoir carcase data, are used to calculate Carcase EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN.

Which animals should be scanned?

What is live animal ultrasound scanning?

While often cost prohibitive, scanning steers will also provide useful information for their sires and dams.

Live animal ultrasound scanning is a non-invasive technology that allows the seedstock or commercial beef producer to assess the carcase merit of an individual animal whilst still alive as opposed to the collection of carcase data in the chiller. The carcase attributes most commonly measured by ultrasound scanning include:

Rump Fat Depth

Rump Fat Depth is measured at the P8 rump site. The P8 rump site is located at the intersection of the line from the high bone (third sacral vertebrae) with a line from the inside of the pin bone. Rump Fat Depth will be reported to the nearest mm (e.g. 10 mm).

Rib Fat Depth

Rib Fat Depth is measured at the 12/13th rib site. The 12/13th rib site is located on the longissimus dorsi muscle (eye muscle) between the 12th & 13th rib. Rib Fat Depth will be reported to the nearest mm (e.g. 7 mm).

Eye Muscle Area

Eye Muscle Area is measured as the cross sectional area of the longissimus dorsi muscle between the 12th & 13th rib. EMA is reported to the nearest cm2 (e.g.110 cm2). Eye Muscle Area is also referred to as Rib Eye Area.

Intramuscular Fat (IMF)

The carcase benchmark for intra-muscular fat is the chemical extraction of all fat from a meat sample taken as a slice off the longissimus dorsi between the 12th & 13th ribs. Ultrasound scanning for IMF uses a longitudinal image of the longissimus dorsi muscle between the 12th & 13th ribs. IMF is reported as a percentage (eg 3.5%)

Use of accredited scanning technicians

Angus BREEDPLAN can only accept live animal ultrasound scanning measurements that have been collected by an accredited technician. A list of accredited technicians can be accessed from the BREEDPLAN area of the Angus Australia website, or by contacting staff at Angus Australia.

Submission of scanning information is the breeder’s responsibility, not the accredited technician. 16

Angus Australia

While bulls are most commonly scanned, it is recommended that both bulls and heifers are scanned. Heifers provide valuable data for IMF as they mature earlier and better express genetic differences than males.

When should animals be scanned?

Angus BREEDPLAN can analyse live animal ultrasound scanning measurements from animals that are between 300 – 800 days of age at scanning. It is important to scan animals when they are within this age range, with the majority of animals being scanned as either yearlings or rising 2 year olds (i.e. around 600 days of age). It is critical that animals are in appropriate condition when live animal ultrasound scanning measurements are collected and consequently, condition of stock should be the most important consideration when making a decision about when to scan animals. Scanning animals when they are in appropriate condition ensures that there will be sufficient variation between animals to allow genetic differences to show up. If all animals are in very poor condition it would be expected that they would all have very similar rib & rump fat depths (i.e. 1-2 mm) and negligible marbling. In this scenario, scanning would be of little benefit as a means of identifying animals that are genetically different for fat depth and genetically superior for IMF. Effective results may still be achieved for EMA as sufficient variation is likely to exist between animals irrespective of condition. As a rough guide, animals require a minimum average rump fat depth of 4–5 mm (or a minimum average rib fat measurement of 3 mm) to facilitate the collection of useful scanning measurements. Results for IMF will be further optimised if the majority of animals have between approximately 2 – 8% IMF when scanned. The effectiveness of the current scanning machines decreases when measuring IMF levels outside this range. If animals have been in poor condition and have put on the required 4 - 5 mm of fat in a relatively short period, then there may still not be sufficient variation between animals to allow genetic differences to show up, particularly for IMF. Members who are in any doubt regarding when to scan their animals, should discuss their situation with an accredited scanner or contact staff at Angus Australia. The availability of accredited technicians will also influence the time of scanning, but should not be a major determinant.

T ◊While more than one set of live animal ultrasound scanning measurements can be collected for an individual animal, Angus BREEDPLAN is only analysing the first EMA, rib fat, rump fat and IMF measurement for each animal at this stage. Consequently, it is only necessary to collect one set of ultrasound scanning measurements on each animal for Angus BREEDPLAN. While all traits are typically measured on the same day, it is possible to submit EMA, rib fat, rump fat and IMF measurements where the individual traits have been measured on different days.

◊It is important to try and scan as many animals within

each management group as possible. Submission of live animal ultrasound scanning measurements for only a selection of calves (e.g. only submitting the scanning performance of sale bulls rather than the entire bull drop) may result in data biases and the subsequent calculation of carcase EBVs that do not reflect the true genetic merit of animals.

◊A management group should be recorded for any

animals or group of animals that have been treated

differently or exposed to significant non-genetic influences prior to measurement that may affect their live animal ultrasound scanning measurements. For example, the scanning measurements for animals given a supplement should be recorded in a different management group to those without a supplement. Consideration should also be given to variations in pasture quality, stocking rates, water quality, etc.

◊Live animal ultrasound scanning measurements should be recorded for all animals in a contemporary group on the same day. Angus BREEDPLAN will not directly compare scanning measurements collected on different days.

◊Live animal ultrasound scanning measurements

should be collected when animals are in as large a group as possible. Consequently, try to collect scanning measurements before any of the animals in a management group are treated differently. For example, before some bulls are joined.

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 17

Collecting Abattoir Carcase Information Abattoir carcase information, along with live animal ultrasound scanning measurements, is used to calculate Carcase EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN. Why collect abattoir carcase information?

Traits such as carcase yield and meat quality are some of the most economically important traits in the beef supply chain. While the collection of carcase information from ultrasound scanning provides useful information on live animals, abattoir carcase information is of particular value for genetic evaluation as it represents a direct measure of the attributes of a beef carcase. Obtaining direct abattoir carcase measurements can add considerable accuracy to the Carcase EBVs calculated within Angus BREEDPLAN, and consequently provides a valuable source of information when attempting to identify animals with superior carcase genetics for use in a beef breeding program.

How much effort is involved?

Members who are considering embarking on the collection of abattoir carcase information for Angus BREEDPLAN need to be aware that the collection of abattoir information can be challenging, expensive and time consuming. The rewards however are significant and if useful abattoir information can be collected, the benefits can be considerable.

What abattoir carcase information will be accepted?

Abattoir carcase information must meet certain requirements in order to be accepted for inclusion in Angus BREEDPLAN. These requirements have been put in place to ensure any abattoir carcase information that is analysed within Angus BREEDPLAN meets appropriate data integrity standards. Specifically, abattoir carcase information will be only be accepted for inclusion in Angus BREEDPLAN if: • It has been collected as part of a structured progeny test program • Appropriate measurement collection protocol have been followed to ensure the carcase measurements that are collected are of suitable quality for genetic evaluation • Animals are between 300 and 1000 days of age at slaughter (i.e. 10 – 33 months). Abattoir carcase information that does not meet these criteria, such as kill sheets for small groups of steers or cull heifers, or information collected as part of a carcase 18

Angus Australia

competition, is not suitable for inclusion in Angus BREEDPLAN. Carcase weight, rump fat, eye muscle area, MSA marble score and intramuscular fat measurements are currently utilised in the calculation of Carcase EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN, however other measurements that have been collected can be submitted for storage on the Angus Australia database and possible future analysis.

Establishing a progeny test for the collection of abattoir carcase information

It is essential that any abattoir carcase information collected for inclusion in Angus BREEDPLAN is from a structured progeny test program in order to ensure that the amount of useful information generated is maximised.

Number of effective progeny per sire

Ensuring that there are an adequate number of effective progeny by each sire is an important consideration when designing a progeny test program. The number of effective progeny per sire (EPN) takes into account not only the number of progeny by each sire, but how useful the information collected on those progeny are for genetic evaluation. The number of effective progeny for an individual sire can be calculated by considering the number of progeny within a contemporary group that are by the sire compared with the number of progeny in the contemporary group sired by other bulls. A contemporary group can be considered to be animals of the same sex which are born within an individual herd in a 60 day period and are managed together as one mob under the same conditions until slaughter. Specifically, the number of effective progeny for a sire can be calculated as follows:

EPN = No. of Sire’s Progeny x

No. of Progeny by Other Sires No. of Animals in Contemporary Group

For example, if a sire has 5 progeny in a contemporary group of 10 animals, then the effective progeny number would be 5 x (5/10) = 2.5 progeny. The following table provides a guide to the impact on the effective progeny number as the number of progeny by a sire, and the number of progeny by other sires changes within a contemporary group.

Effective Progeny Number in Different Scenarios Number of Sireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Progeny

Progeny by Other Sires

Effective Progeny Number

Approximate EBV Accuracy Heritability of Trait 20%

30%

2.5

0.33

0.40

3.3

0.38

0.45

3.8

0.40

0.47

4.0

0.41

0.48

4.2

0.42

0.49

4.3

0.42

0.49

3.3

0.38

0.45

5.0

0.45

0.52

6.0

0.48

0.56

6.7

0.50

0.58

7.1

0.51

0.59

7.5

0.52

0.60

3.8

0.40

0.47

6.0

0.48

0.56

7.5

0.52

0.60

8.6

0.55

0.63

9.4

0.56

0.64

10.0

0.58

0.65

4.0

0.41

0.48

6.7

0.50

0.58

8.6

0.55

0.63

10.0

0.58

0.65

11.1

0.60

0.67

12.0

0.61

0.69

4.2

0.42

0.49

7.1

0.51

0.59

9.4

0.56

0.64

11.1

0.60

0.67

12.5

0.62

0.70

13.6

0.64

0.71

4.3

0.42

0.49

7.5

0.52

0.60

10.0

0.58

0.65

12.0

0.61

0.69

13.6

0.64

0.71

15.0

0.65

0.73

Ideally sufficient females should be joined within the progeny test program to obtain a total effective progeny number of at least 10 - 15 per sire. This should give an EBV accuracy above 65-70% for a carcase trait with a heritability of 30%.

Genetic linkage (within Progeny Test)

In progeny tests where there are multiple contemporary groups (either within a single herd or across different herds), it is important to ensure that there are adequate genetic links between contemporary groups. Genetic linkage enables the abattoir carcase measurements collected on animals in the different contemporary groups to be compared, while also enabling adjustment for differences in the genetic merit of the females to which the bulls are joined in each contemporary group. If it is not possible for common sires to be represented in each different contemporary group, a minimum requirement would be to ensure that at least some of the bulls used have common sires, hence creating genetic linkage between contemporary groups through common grand-sires.

Genetic linkage (with Angus BREEDPLAN Analysis)

If the bulls being progeny tested are largely of unknown genetics, it is important that reference sires are included in order to enable the abattoir carcase measurements to be linked to the carcase information that has been collected for other animals within the Angus breed. The reference sires should ideally be â&#x20AC;&#x153;provenâ&#x20AC;? bulls that have Carcase EBVs with at least 80% accuracy.

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 19

Allocation of dams

It is important to carefully consider the dams to which the bulls will be joined in any progeny test program for the collection of abattoir carcase information.

Recording birth date information

It is important that appropriate details are recorded on all progeny at birth to enable the most effective analysis of the abattoir carcase information that is collected.

T ◊Ideally the sires being progeny tested will be joined to dams of known carcase genetics (e.g. registered or previously registered females with Carcase EBVs).

◊If dams of unknown carcase genetics are being joined (e.g. commercial females), it is important that dams are randomly allocated to each sire (i.e. no selective mating).

◊Where females of several age classes are used, it

is important to allocate females evenly across the age classes.

◊Dams should ideally be straight bred Angus dams, but cows of another breed or crossbred cows can also be joined as part of a progeny test. It is however important that all cows joined are of the same breed (or similar cross).

◊At a minimum, all dams should be individually identified (i.e. tagged), with the year of birth and breed composition of each dam recorded with Angus Australia to account for age of dam and breed effects.

Animal identification

It is important that all animals within the progeny test are clearly identified. This includes the dams to which the sires will be joined, plus all progeny. Ideally, two forms of identification should be used to enable animals to be identified when tags are lost. For example, progeny may be tagged with a management tag at or shortly after birth, followed by a NLIS tag at marking.

G123

1234

OVE

BREEDPLAN will make adjustments to the abattoir carcase measurements to account for differences in the age and breed of the dam.

◊If any calves have been bred by embryo transfer

(ET), details regarding the recipient dam needs to be recorded. Angus BREEDPLAN will make adjustments to the abattoir carcase .

◊The birth number of each calf needs to be recorded.

That is, whether the calf is a single or twin calf. Angus BREEDPLAN will not directly compare the abattoir carcase measurements of single and twin calves together, and in general, twin calves should be removed from the progeny test.

Maintenance of contemporary groups (on farm)

Where practical, all animals within a contemporary group (i.e. animals of the same sex which are born within an individual herd in a 60 day period) need to be managed together as one mob under the same conditions from birth until slaughter. Splitting contemporary groups into different mobs will reduce the effectiveness of the abattoir carcase information that is collected. Likewise, “culling” any animals from the progeny test will potentially bias the abattoir carcase information.

DE G F

◊The dam of each calf needs to be recorded. Angus

All animals within a contemporary group should be slaughtered on the same day and at the same abattoir.

SD EF

ABC

56xx

AB S C

xA C B

456x

accurately as possible. Angus BREEDPLAN will make adjustments to the abattoir carcase measurements to account for any differences in age between animals.

Maintenance of contemporary groups (at slaughter)

◊The birth date of all calves needs to be recorded as

SD F E

NLIS TAGS 20 Angus Australia

MANAGEMENT TAGS

Animals within a contemporary group should not be “harvested” and slaughtered on different days as different portions of the contemporary group meet market specifications.

Harvesting animals as they meet market specifications will bias the Carcase EBVs that are calculated from the abattoir carcase information, with the information not accurately reflecting the variation in performance within the contemporary group, while also influencing sire representation in each sub-group.

Abattoir measurement collection protocols to ensure data integrity

Splitting management groups

When obtaining abattoir carcase information for inclusion in Angus BREEDPLAN, it is important to investigate how the carcases will be processed at the abattoir and how the carcase measurements will be collected to ensure that any information collected is useful for genetic evaluation.

Recording management group information

In reality this can be difficult when carcases are being processed through commercially operated abattoirs, however abattoir measurements that have not been collected in accordance with appropriate measurement collection protocols can lead to considerable bias in the Carcase EBVs that are calculated for animals within Angus BREEDPLAN.

If it is necessary to split contemporary groups either onfarm or for slaughter on different days then it is important that each sire is equally represented in each sub-group. For example, if a contemporary group needs to be split into 3 sub-groups then 1/3 of the progeny by each sire should be randomly selected for each sub-group. It is important that any animals within a contemporary group whose performance may have been affected by different non-genetic factors are clearly identified by specifying a different management group (or kill group) for the animals when submitting the abattoir carcase information to BREEDPLAN. For example, animals that may have been split into a different mob for management purposes, or animals that have been affected by injury or sickness. It is important to record a management group if animals have been affected by non-genetic factors at any time from birth up until slaughter. If animals are being finished in a feedlot, this includes details of any animals who may have been shy feeders, or who may have been removed from the group for health treatments.

Use of MSA accredited graders

Where possible, animals should be processed at a Meat Standards Australia (MSA) licensed abattoir and have measurements collected by an MSA accredited grader. A list of MSA licensed abattoirs is available from the Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) website. It is important that the same MSA accredited grader collects carcase measurements on all animals within a contemporary group. Where carcase measurements are collected by different graders, a different management group (or kill group) should be specified for the carcases assessed by each grader.

Animal identification in the abattoir

Loss of individual animal and carcase identification is a common problem when collecting abattoir information for genetic evaluation. All animals will have a management tag and NLIS tag at slaughter, with abattoirs routinely recording NLIS tag and body number. It is important that all identification information is carefully cross referenced to ensure that the abattoir measurements collected are appropriately assigned to the correct animals.

Processing of carcases

Several carcase processing procedures routinely practiced in commercial abattoirs can lead to a reduction in the usefulness of any abattoir carcase measurements for genetic evaluation. â&#x20AC;˘ Hide puller damage - Fat can inadvertently be stripped from the carcase when the hide is being removed and can considerably bias the rump and rib fat measurements subsequently collected on the carcase. Fat measurements should not be submitted to Angus BREEDPLAN from carcases where considerable hide puller damage has occurred.

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 21

• Trimming – Fat will routinely be trimmed from carcases using a whizzer knife prior to carcase measurements being collected, especially from the rib fat measurement site. Rib fat measurements should not be submitted to Angus BREEDPLAN from carcases that have been trimmed. • Carcase damage / Bruising - Carcases that may have considerable damage, bruising or abscesses can have portions removed during processing. Any measurements from these carcases should be carefully scrutinised and only submitted to Angus BREEDPLAN if the processing of the carcase has not biased the measurements collected. • Quarter site – Carcases may be quartered at different sites. It is important that all carcases from animals in a contemporary group are quartered at the same site, and ideally at the 12/13th rib site. Where carcases have been quartered at a different site, a different management group (or kill group) should be specified. • Spencer rolling – Some abattoirs undertake a practice known as “spencer rolling” to improve the shape of the cube roll. By design, spencer rolling distorts the eye muscle and subsequently biases any eye muscle area (EMA) and rib fat measurements that are collected. EMA and rib fat measurements should not be submitted to Angus BREEDPLAN from carcases that have been subject to spencer rolling.

• Chiller differences – Differences in chiller conditions (e.g. temperature), or differences in the length of time between slaughter and the collection of measurements in the chiller can have an influence on the carcase measurement values that are collected. A separate management group should be recorded to clearly identify any carcases from within a contemporary group that are stored in different chillers, or to identify any carcases for which there has been a significant difference in the length of time before measurement.

Collection of Meat Science Laboratory results

In addition to carcase measurements collected in the abattoir, meat samples can be collected from carcases for further analysis in the meat science laboratory for traits such as intramuscular fat (IMF), meat tenderness and meat colour. Meat science laboratory measurements are expensive and are normally only collected in research trials, however members interested in obtaining meat science laboratory measurements should contact staff at Angus BREEDPLAN to discuss what is involved.

• Electrical stimulation – All carcases from animals within a contemporary group should be subject to the same electrical stimulation process. This is particularly important when meat samples will be collected for analysis of meat tenderness.

Reviewing quality of measurements

Prior to submission to Angus BREEDPLAN, it is important that any abattoir carcase measurements are carefully scrutinised. Specifically, the measurements should be reviewed to ensure they fit within normal expected ranges, and that the variation between measurements is reviewed to ensure that measurements follow a normal expected distribution.

22 Angus Australia

Collecting Docility Information Docility scores taken on calves between 60 and 400 days of age are used to calculate Docility EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN. Recording docility scores

Animals can be scored for docility using either a crush or yard test: • Crush Test- Calves are put up a race and held in a crush or weigh scales for a minimum of 10 seconds (but not necessarily head bailed). • Yard Test - Calves are individually put into a small square yard and the handler attempts to hold the animal in one corner for a minimum of 10 seconds. While docility scores from both scoring systems are acceptable, the crush test is more commonly used as animals can be scored when moving through the crush for other purposes (e.g. weighing, animal health treatments).

Docility score descriptions

When using either the crush or yard test, the behaviour of animals should be observed and animals scored using the criteria displayed in the following table. Half scores (i.e. 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 4.5) can be used to identify animals who exhibit behaviour which is intermediate to the scores listed. In a “normal” Angus beef herd where the majority of animals have acceptable temperament, it would be expected that the majority of animals would have a score of 1, 1.5 or 2, with a small percentage of animals receiving a score of 2.5 and above. Docility Scores for Angus BREEDPLAN

1 Docile

Mild disposition, gentle and easily handled, stands and moves slowly during handling, undisturbed, settled, somewhat dull, does not pull on headgate when in crush, exits crush calmly.

2 Restless

Quiet but slightly restless, may be stubborn during handling, may try to back out of crush, pulls back on headgate, some flicking of tail, exits crush promptly.

Manageable but nervous and impatient, a moderate amount of struggling, movement and tail flicking, repeated pushing and pulling on headgate, exits crush briskly.

Nervous

4 Flighty

Jumpy and out of control, quivers and struggles violently, may bellow and froth at mouth, continuous tail flicking, defecates and urinates during handling, frantically runs fenceline and may jump when penned individually, exhibits long flight distance and exits crush wildly.

May be similar to score 4 but with added aggressive behaviour, fearful, extreme continuous movement which may Aggressive agitation, include jumping and bellowing while in crush, exits crush frantically and may exhibit attack behaviour when handled alone.

When should animals be scored?

Docility scores must be recorded when animals are between 60 and 400 days of age for inclusion in Angus BREEDPLAN. The recommended time of scoring is at weaning or shortly afterwards. The advantage of scoring at weaning is that all calves should have had minimal handling and so will express variation in temperament. Variation in handling between animals prior to scoring should also be minimised. Only one docility score can be analysed in Angus BREEDPLAN for each individual animal.

T ◊There needs to be some variation in scores for

them to be used in the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis. Scoring all animals in a group with a docility score of [1] does not identify any differences in docility between animals, and consequently does not provide any useful information for the calculation of Docility EBVs.

◊Docility scores should be collected for all animals in a contemporary group. Only recording docility scores for a subset of animals is of no value and can lead to biased Docility EBVs.

◊All animals in a contemporary group should be scored on the same day. Angus BREEDPLAN will not directly compare the docility scores of animals that have been scored on different days.

◊Docility scores should be collected when animals are in as large a group as possible. Consequently, try to collect docility scores before any of the animals in a management group are treated differently.

◊If any animals being scored on a particular day have

had a different level of handling prior to scoring, they should be assigned a different “docility management group”.

◊The method of scoring used (i.e. crush or yard)

should be specified when submitting the docility scores.

◊It is important that both a consistent scoring method is used and the same person scores all animals that are being assessed in the herd on a particular day.

◊While more than one docility score can be recorded for an individual animal, Angus BREEDPLAN is only analysing the first docility score for each animal at this stage.

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 23

Collecting Structural Soundness Scores Subjective structural soundness scores collected by an accredited scorer when animals are younger than 750 days are used to calculate Structural Soundness EBVs within Angus BREEDPLAN. Recording structural soundness scores Structural soundness scores for Angus BREEDPLAN are collected using the Beef Class Structural Assessment System.

Soundness Scores forasAngus ◊It Structural is important to try and score manyBREEDPLAN animals within each contemporary group as possible. Collection of structural soundness scores for only a selection of animals (e.g. only collecting scores for sale bulls rather than the entire bull drop) may result in data biases and the subsequent calculation of Structural Soundness EBVs that do not reflect the true genetic merit of animals.

◊There needs to be some variation in scores for

them to be used in the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis. Scoring all animals in a group with a docility score of [5] does not identify any differences in docility between animals, and consequently does not provide any useful information for the calculation of Docility EBVs.

Scores are collected for 5 traits related to feet and leg structure using a 1 - 9 scoring system, where: • A score of 5 is considered ideal • Scores of 4 and 6 show slight variation from ideal, but this includes most animals. Any animal scoring 4 and 6 would be acceptable in any breeding program • Scores of 3 and 7 show greater variation, but would be acceptable in most commercial breeding programs, however seedstock producers should be wary • Scores of 2 and 8 are low scoring animals and should be looked at carefully before purchasing • Scores of 1 and 9 should be considered culls

◊A management group should be recorded for any

Use of accredited technicians

◊Structural soundness scores should be recorded for

Structural soundness scores for Angus BREEDPLAN must be collected by an accredited technician. A list of accredited technicians can be accessed from the BREEDPLAN area of the Angus Australia website, or by contacting staff at Angus Australia.

all animals in a contemporary group on the same day. Angus BREEDPLAN will not directly compare scores collected on different days. Likewise, the same accredited technician should be used to score all animals in a contemporary group.

Structural soundness scores not collected by an accredited technician will not be included in Angus BREEDPLAN.

◊If foot trimming is practiced, structural soundness

When should animals be scored?

Angus BREEDPLAN can analyse structural soundness scores from animals that are less than 750 days of age at scoring (i.e. 25 months). The majority of animals are scored as either yearlings or rising 2 year olds. Structural soundness scores can be collected on mature cows but are not currently utilised in the calculation of Structural Soundness EBVs.

animals or group of animals that have been treated differently or exposed to significant non-genetic influences prior to measurement that may affect their structural soundness scores. For example, differences in feed, or animals being run on different types of country (i.e. soft, rocky).

scores should be collected prior to trimming so that differences between animals are accurately described.

◊Structural score information can also be collected

for a range of other traits such as sheath and navel scores, udder evenness and attachment, teat size and shape and capacity. These scores are not currently included in the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis however they may be used to develop Structural Soundness EBVs for these traits in the future.

T ◊While more than one set of structural score

information can be recorded for an individual animal, Angus BREEDPLAN is only analysing the first set of structural score information for each animal at this stage.

◊While bulls are most commonly scored, structural soundness scores can be collected on both heifers and bulls.

24 Angus Australia

If there is variation from foot to foot, the score that is collected should reflect the worst foot.

STRUCTURAL SOUNDNESS SCORES Front Feet Claw Set

Open Divergent (OD)

desirable

Scissor claws (SC)

Reference: Shape (primarily curl) and evenness of the claw set.

Front & Rear Feet Angle

Steep feet angle (SA)

desirable

Shallow feet angle (SA)

Reference: Strength of pastern, depth of heel and length of foot.

Rear Leg Side View

Straight rear leg (ST)

desirable

Sickle hocked rear leg (SI)

Reference: Angle measured at the front of the hock.

Rear Leg Hind View

Bow legged rear leg (BL)

desirable

Cow hocked rear leg (CH)

Reference: Direction of the feet when viewed from the rear.

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 25

Recording Management Groups Recording management group information is one of the most important aspects of collecting performance information for Angus BREEDPLAN. Why are management groups important?

Angus BREEDPLAN analyses cattle in contemporary groups to take out the influence of as many of the nongenetic effects as possible (e.g. management, nutrition, feed, year, season, injury, health status). The underlying principle is that only animals that have had an equal opportunity to perform are directly compared together within each contemporary group. If the contemporary groups are not correctly formed, the EBVs calculated will be less accurate and possibly misleading. Most of the problems that breeders encounter in “believing” their Angus BREEDPLAN EBVs can be traced back to incorrect contemporary grouping – either calves being fragmented into isolated groups of only one or two animals (and thereby virtually eliminating those calves from any comparison with their peers) or by not differentiating between calves who performance has been influenced by different non-genetic factors (e.g. differences in management or feeding). Importantly, the management groups that are submitted with each set of performance information have a major influence on which animals are directly compared within each contemporary group in the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis.

Types of management groups

There are two different types of management groups.

1. Birth Management Group: specified to describe

any non-genetic factors prior to calving that may result in differences to the performance measurements that are collected at birth (i.e. calving ease, birth weight, gestation length). For example, where one group of cows have been supplementary fed during gestation, resulting in heavier calf birth weights than would otherwise be the case if they ware managed in a similar manner to other cows who haven’t been supplementary fed.

2. Post Birth Management Group: specified to

describe any non-genetic factors post birth that may result in differences to the performance measurements that are collected. For example, when some animals were run on an oats crop, resulting in heavier weights than would have been 26 Angus Australia

the case if they were managed in a similar manner to other animals that were run on native pasture. Specifying management group information is an important consideration when submitting any performance information to Angus BREEDPLAN. By assigning animals into management groups, seedstock breeders are acting as “eyes” for the BREEDPLAN evaluation and ensuring that only the performance for animals that have had the same opportunity to perform is directly compared together.

Assigning management groups

Animals should be assigned into different management groups in any situation where their performance has been affected by different non-genetic influences to other animals. In practical terms, animals that have been run in the same contemporary group and have had equal opportunity to perform should be grouped together. Some examples of where animals should be recorded in separate management groups are: • grain fed animals versus paddock reared animals • some animals are fed for show or sale • some animals being given growth promotants • animals reared in different paddocks in which feed is of different nutritional value • sickness gives some calves a permanent set back • a bull has been fighting and clearly lost weight prior to recording • yearling bulls used as sires compared to those not used as sires • different stages of pregnancy for heifers (try to weigh before joining and certainly before two months) • calves weighed on different scales • calves weighed straight from the paddock as compared to those off feed for say three hours or more • calves that are orphaned

Collecting Genomic Information Genomic predictions, obtained from a DNA sample of an animal, are combined with the pedigree and performance information that has been collected to calculate Angus BREEDPLAN Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) for the animal of higher accuracy.

Steps for collecting genomic information

The process for testing an Angus animal with any of the genomic products is the same:

Contact Angus Australia and request a DNA Collection Kit.

Which genomic product?

Angus BREEDPLAN incorporates genomic information from several different genomic products. When making a decision as to what genomic product will be used, it is important to consider: • The density of the genomic product. In most cases, testing animals with a low density product is adequate for the inclusion in Angus BREEDPLAN. A high density product would only be considered if it was deemed advantageous to store a higher density genetic profile for inclusion in future research, or to assist the research efforts of genotyping companies. • The traits for which genomic predictions will be provided. • The accuracy of the genomic predictions that will be provided. • The price of the genomic product. Information regarding the different genomic products for which animals can be tested is available in the BREEDPLAN section of the Angus Australia website.

Step 1

Step 2

 



Obtain a DNA sample from the animal. Hair or semen is preferred, but tissue can also be provided. If a hair sample is being provided and additional DNA testing is also required (such as testing for genetic condition status), it is advisable to collect two hair samples to ensure that adequate DNA is available.

Complete the DNA Test Request form that is available from the Angus Australia website, or upon request

Step 3

from staff at Angus Australia.





Return the completed DNA Test Request form and DNA sample to the address listed on the DNA Test

Step 4

Request form.



It is important that DNA samples are submitted through Angus Australia. Results from genomic tests not conducted through Angus Australia will not be included in the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis.

Cost of genomic testing

The cost of testing differs depending on the genomic test that is being conducted. Costs for the different genomic tests are available from the Angus Australia website.

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 27

Availability of results

Upon receipt of the DNA sample, the sample will be processed and forwarded to the relevant laboratory for testing. Once the testing is completed, the genomic results are returned to Angus Australia and automatically stored on the Angus Australia database for inclusion in the next Angus BREEDPLAN analysis Results are usually available within 4-5 weeks, with very similar turnaround times for each of the different genomic products.

When should DNA samples be collected?

DNA samples for genomic testing can be collected on animals of any age, and so should be undertaken at a time that best fits in with other normal, routine management practices. A good strategy is to collect samples on all calves at a young age (e.g. weaning) and store the samples for genomic testing at a later date. To best preserve the DNA sample, hair samples should be placed in either a plastic sealable sandwich bag or an envelope, and stored in a dry, dark environment. If collecting hair samples, collection should not be done on very young calves (e.g. at birth). Hair samples must have clearly visible follicles before they are suitable for testing.

Testing can consequently be conducted as many or few animals as desired. Common testing strategies include: • testing an individual animal • strategically testing a group of animals of specific interest, for example candidate bulls for use in a breeding program • testing an entire calf drop When making a decision as to what animals will be tested, it is important to consider: • Genomic information provides more value for animals whose EBVs are of low accuracy. Genomic testing is therefore more suited to calves, than sires or dams, or calves for which it is difficult to collect effective performance information (e.g. calves that may have been removed from their contemporary group, calves in smaller herds). • Genomic information is of limited value if the animals being tested are not related to the animals that were used to develop the genomic product. For this reason, the genomic testing should only be conducted on black Angus animals (or Red Angus animals with at least one black Angus parent).

T ◊Check the identification of the animal and record

the full Angus Australia ident on the front of the collection card.

◊When collecting hair samples, pull a minimum of 30 hair follicles from the thick brush of the animal’s tail making sure the roots are still attached.

◊Ensure the DNA sample collected is dry and free

from any foreign matter (dirt, faeces and plant material). Dirty samples often fail testing and will require recollection.

◊When collecting hair samples, place the hair sample in the collection card, align hair follicles and place the animal ident sticker over the hair shafts. Trim oﬀ excess hair that falls below the card.

◊Semen straws are damaged easily, take two pieces

of cardboard and make a groove for the straw to sit in. Label and tape cardboard together.

◊When posting semen straws write “do not bend” on postage bag.

◊Ensure that the Angus Australia DNA Test Request

What animals should be tested?

In contrast to performance information, there is no requirement to collect DNA samples for all animals in a contemporary group.

28 Angus Australia

form is completed and submit a signed copy of the member test agreement, if you haven’t previously completed one.

◊Place samples and completed paperwork in a sturdy postage bag.

Submitting Data For Angus BREEDPLAN All data for Angus BREEDPLAN should be submitted directly to Angus Australia. The format in which data can be submitted differs subject to the type of information being provided, with data potentially accepted in the one of the following formats: • Compatible herd recording computer program

registrations, weights and scanning, structural score, abattoir carcase, and days to calving information. • Submission facility on Angus Australia website A facility is available on the Angus Australia website that enables the entry and electronic submission of data to Angus Australia. • Paper forms Standard pre-printed paper forms are available that enable data to be submitted to Angus Australia via mail or fax. Forms are available from Angus Australia, with different forms available for calf registrations, weights and mature cow weights.

Many of the commercially available herd recording computer programs (e.g. StockBook, HerdMASTER, Cattlelink, koolcollect) have the facility to submit data electronically to Angus Australia. • Microsoft Excel templates Standard Microsoft Excel templates are available that enable data to be submitted electronically to Angus Australia. Copies of the templates are available from the BREEDPLAN area on the Angus Australia website, with different templates available for calf

Information

Compatible Microsoft Submission Facility Herd Excel on Angus Recording Template Australia Program Website

Data should be submitted to Angus BREEDPLAN shortly after collection, with no limit on the number of times that data can be submitted throughout each year. Submission deadlines for inclusion in Angus BREEDPLAN analyses are available from the BREEDPLAN section on the Angus Australia website.

Paper form

Notes

Animal details



Submitted in association with calf registrations

Calving difficulty score



Submitted in association with calf registrations

Gestation length



Submitted in association with calf registrations

Birth weight



Submitted in association with calf registrations

200 day weight



400 day weight



600 day weight



Mature cow weight



Scrotal circumference



Ultrasound scanning (EMA, rib fat, rump fat, IMF%)



Recording sheet provided by accredited technician can be submitted provided it is presented in an acceptable format (including correct Angus Australia ident and management group information) Recording sheet provided by accredited technician can be submitted provided it is presented in an acceptable format (including correct Angus Australia ident and management group information)

Structural soundness scores



Docility scores



Abattoir carcase



Days to calving

Contact Angus Australia to discuss alternative options if electronic submission of days to calving information is not possible

Collection Guidelines for Angus BREEDPLAN 29

‘‘

Measurement is the first step that leads to control and eventually to improvement. If you can’t measure something, you can’t understand it. If you can’t understand it, you can’t control it. If you can’t control it, you can’t improve it. H. James Harrington

Further Information

To further discuss the collection and submission of any of the information discussed in this publication, please contact staff at Angus Australia. Angus Australia Locked Bag 11 Armidale NSW 2350 phone: (02) 6773 4600 email: office@angusaustralia.com.au Version: 1.01 © 2016 Angus Australia

30 Angus Australia

ANGUS AUSTRALIA Phone: 02 6773 4600 Email: office@angusaustralia.com.au Website: www.angusaustralia.com.au