This study followed two groups of Angus heifers under different developmental programs. The aim was to increase our understanding of body compositional changes as a heifer goes through puberty and the impact of these changes on heifer reproductive performance. On average, heifers developed to the recommended 65% of mature body weight at time of breeding had heavier weights, larger body composition measurements, larger pelvic measurements, and a higher percentage expressed estrus at artificial insemination (AI) compared to heifers developed to a lower percentage of body weight at time of breeding. No differences in overall pregnancy rates were observed between treatment groups at the conclusion of this study. Backfat and treatment group were significant predictors in heifer pregnancy models.

Read the full article in the Journal of Animal Science.