Summer Joining for Autumn Calving Black Angus Herds | Pavey Angus

Practical joining tips for autumn-calving Black Angus herds — fertility, bull checks, EBVs, and heat management. Producer-level insight from Pavey Angus.

Getting the Most from Summer Joining

For autumn-calving Angus herds, the key joining period is now. Setting cows and bulls up right through the summer months determines next autumn’s calving pattern and weaner weights. A few simple management checks can make all the difference.

1️⃣ Target body condition: Aim for cows around BCS 3 (on a 1–5 scale) as joining begins. Draft any lighter cows onto better pasture or supplements early — it’s easier to gain weight now than in late summer.

2️⃣ Bull soundness: Bulls are working in the heat, so inspect feet, legs, eyes, and sheath for issues that limit mobility. Heat stress can affect semen quality for up to eight weeks, so plan rosters and shade access carefully.

3️⃣ EBVs that count: Balance CE Dir, CE Dtrs, Days to Calving and Scrotal for fertility, with early growth and carcase traits (EMA, IMF) for market value. Avoid chasing single traits — practical, well-balanced bulls breed profit-ready calves.

4️⃣ Mating ratios & length: For autumn programs, aim for 6–9 weeks with heifers and 9 weeks with mature cows. This keeps calving compact and simplifies management.

5️⃣ Heat & herd management: Provide shade and water, manage flies and pinkeye, and monitor bulls daily early in joining. Record matings and book preg-testing six to eight weeks after joining wraps up.

At Pavey Angus, our breeding program is built for autumn-calving systems — fertility, structure, temperament and real-world doing ability come first. Getting joining right now sets up heavier, more even calves and stronger sale results next season.