As calves are weaned in late October and November for spring-calving beef herds, producers are encouraged to use this transition period to assess the body condition scores (BCS) of their cow herds. Weaning provides an ideal opportunity to evaluate cow health and nutritional needs, as nutrient demands for lactation decrease and cows begin to rebuild body reserves.
The 1 to 9 body condition scoring system evaluates the fatness of cows through visual assessment of six key areas: brisket, backbone, ribs, hooks, pins, and tailhead. A score of 1 represents an extremely thin cow, while 9 indicates obesity. Cows in mid-range scores (5 to 6) are typically optimal for calving, as these conditions influence colostrum quality and postpartum cycling.
Management Insights
- Weaning as a Benchmark: At weaning, assess the entire herd, paying close attention to young females weaning their first calves. These first-calf heifers are often thin and may require additional management to regain condition. Grouping them for targeted feeding can improve efficiency and allow for better monitoring of their recovery.
- Seasonal Strategies: Late fall and early winter, immediately following weaning, are the most cost-effective times to address low body condition. Mature cows often begin to regain condition naturally after weaning due to reduced nutrient demands. Reassess body condition 45 days post-weaning to gauge progress and identify any cows needing supplementation.
- Pre-Calving Goals: Aim for a body condition score of 5 for mature cows and 6 for first-calf heifers by calving. Evaluate the herd 90 days before calving to confirm they are on track. If cows are still thin, implement a feeding strategy immediately, as regaining condition post-calving is costly and less effective.
Weaning marks a critical point in herd management, offering producers the chance to reset cow nutrition plans and optimize health for the next production cycle. Regular body condition scoring during and after weaning can improve herd performance and ensure cows are prepared for calving. Producers should consult extension educators or nutritionists for tailored feeding strategies to meet these goals effectively.
