A Bull Breeding Soundness Exam (BSE) is one of the most essential—and often overlooked—tools in managing reproductive success in beef herds. This evaluation ensures your bull is capable of getting cows pregnant efficiently during a defined breeding season.
✅ What is a Bull Breeding Soundness Exam (BSE)?
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A standardized method to assess a bull’s ability to breed cows successfully.
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Helps identify bulls that may cause reproductive failure or reduced calf crop.
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Prevents economic losses by ensuring bulls are fertile and functional before breeding.
🔍 Why Is a BSE Important?
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Subfertile bulls may take longer to impregnate cows, delaying calving.
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Later-born calves are younger and lighter at weaning—reducing sale weights.
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Fewer pregnancies = fewer calves = less profit.
💰 Economic Impact of Bull Fertility
Using fertile vs. subfertile bulls (100 cows, 63-day breeding season):
| Metric | Fertile Bulls | Subfertile Bulls |
|---|---|---|
| Total Calf Pounds Weaned | 49,722 lb | 40,576 lb |
| Gross Revenue @ $1.50/lb | $74,583 | $60,864 |
| Revenue Loss | — | -$13,719 |
Extra pounds = extra profits. A subfertile bull can cost you over $2,000 per head in lost revenue.
Components of a BSE
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Physical Exam
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Checks mobility, eyesight, body condition, and reproductive anatomy.
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Detects any injuries, illness, or physical impairments.
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Scrotal Circumference
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Indicates testicular health and sperm production.
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Minimum size depends on bull’s age (e.g., ≥34 cm for 2+ year-old bulls).
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Sperm Motility
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Measures how well sperm can move.
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Bulls must have ≥30% motility to pass.
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Sperm Morphology
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Evaluates sperm shape and structure.
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Bulls must have ≥70% normal sperm.
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What a BSE Does Not Include
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Libido or mating behavior (serving capacity).
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Disease screening—ask your vet about additional diagnostic testing.
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Long-term fertility—injuries or illness after the exam can still affect performance.
BSE Classification Categories
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Satisfactory Potential Breeder
Meets all BSE requirements. -
Unsatisfactory Potential Breeder
Fails one or more parts of the BSE (subfertile or sterile). -
Deferred
Fails due to a temporary issue (e.g., foot rot, recent illness) and should be retested.
When to Schedule a BSE
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At least 60–75 days before breeding season.
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Allows time to replace or retest bulls.
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Even if it’s closer to breeding—it’s better to test than risk failure.
🐂 Key Takeaways
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Don’t assume your bull is fertile—test him.
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BSEs are cost-effective insurance for reproductive success.
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Work with your vet annually to ensure bull fertility.
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Monitor bulls regularly during the season for injury or loss of function.
A small investment in a BSE can save your operation thousands and secure a successful calving season.
Need help getting started? Contact your veterinarian to schedule a bull breeding soundness exam before the breeding season begins.
