🐂 Cow Herd Comeback

Small Herd Big Results, Keeping Cattle Cool on Fescue, Analytics to Profitable Cow Herd, and DNA Collection from Ranching.com by CattleMax.

June 25, 2025

Ranching.com is your weekly dose of trending news, seasonal tips, and community content put together by our team of ranchers.

IN THE NEWS

 đŸ‚ Cow Herd Comeback

Austin Schroeder

🐂 Cow Herd Comeback - Beef cow slaughter is down more than 17% through mid-May, putting 2025 on track for the lowest level in a decade. Despite strong cull prices, producers seem to be holding onto cows longer—possibly signaling early signs of herd rebuilding. What does this mean for 2026 and beyond?

đŸ”„ Small Herd, Big Results - Smaller cow-calf operations can still compete—and win—by focusing on reputation, weaning, and market timing. From understanding your buyer to taking advantage of sale barn agents, these practical tips help boost calf appeal and profitability. Even small adjustments can make a big difference at sale time.

đŸȘ± Winning Against Worms - Internal parasites cost the cattle industry billions, yet many common misconceptions still hinder effective control. This article breaks down five persistent myths—from assuming all dewormers work the same to believing parasites die off in winter—and emphasizes the need for strategic timing, proper dosing, and working closely with a vet to combat resistance and protect herd health.

➕ Alabama’s Forage Advantage - With a mild climate and expert-backed research, Alabama cattle producers are using forage systems to cut feed costs, boost herd health, and strengthen environmental resilience. From rotational grazing to variety selection tools, Extension specialists are helping producers make the most of their land year-round. It's a powerful strategy that’s paying off in both profit and sustainability.

đŸŒ± Keeping Cattle Cool On Fescue -Tall fescue and summer heat can be a dangerous combination for cattle, impacting weight gain, fertility, and overall health. Toxic endophytes in fescue raise body temperatures and make it harder for cattle to cool down—especially when combined with heat and flies. Discover practical ways to manage heat stress and keep your herd (and profits) in better shape this summer.

VIDEOS FROM AROUND THE WEB
RANCHING KNOW-HOW

Problems That Make Your Farm Truck Unique

Sara Schafer/iStock

Every farm has one — a dented, dusty pickup that’s more stubborn than stylish but still gets the job done. From tailgates held on with twine to gas gauges stuck in 2019, these trucks are full of quirks and character. See if your farm truck makes the list of these 20 unforgettable “features.”

BEHIND THE MIC

Welcome to BCI Cattle Chat! On this episode the crew is joined by parasite expert, Dr. Brian Herrin to discuss the theileriosis and tick control as well as Redwater disease. Finally the experts give some tips on marketing straight to consumer beef. Thanks for tuning in and enjoy the episode!

RANCHING AROUND THE WORLD RECAP
CATTLE COMMUNITY
@piattcattle

“And cattle in the pastures”. Life gets so fast and chaotic it becomes hard to enjoy every moment. Every now and then we need to stop, tak... See more

Lazy T Ranch | Facebook

Call us old-fashioned, but we believe some things stand the test of time. 🙌 Ranching with integrity, raising cattle in accordance with their natural design, cowboying, family, and incredible beef are never outdated.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK
❝

“Never hope for it more than you work for it.”

— Rita Mae Brown

READER POLL

With beef cow slaughter on pace for a 10-year low, what are your herd plans for the rest of 2025?

Let us know in the comments what helped you decide what you were going to do on your ranch.

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LAST WEEK’S RESULTS

What is your top priority when selecting a bull?

29.09%: Proven genetics & EPDs

18.18%: Genomic testing & parent verification

7.27%: Feed efficiency & growth performance

45.45%: Temperament & physical soundness

THOUGHTS FROM VOTERS
Temperament & Physical Soundness

  • “While all of the above things are important in the decision to invest in a good bull, he needs to look the part and act the part! A bull with a calm, manageable temperament is safer and more productive. Good structure supports longevity, breeding ability, and general health.

  • "Form follows function." If a bull is not structurally sound, nothing else matters. How a bull is developed and the program behind the bull are critically important as well. Buying bulls that were fed a finishing ration when you expect your cows to hustle through the winter makes no sense.”

Feed Efficiency & Growth Performance

  • “All of these are very important. Certainly calm disposition and physical soundness are important in safety and ability to breed. EPDs and Genomics tell us where we might want to concentrate our Bull search but to me feed efficiency and growth might have the largest impact to your bottom line. Feed Efficiency cuts two ways, the ability of steers and heifers to gain on less feed inputs and typically are an area of importance in retained heifers being able to become moderate, efficient and productive cows. We sell beef by the pound so added growth means more dollars at the scale. In conclusion, less input cost and higher return on calves sold equal higher net profit.”