Relationship Between Starting and Ending Scrotal Circumference for Bulls in 140-Day Test-of-Gain Programs

Abstract

Scrotal circumference measurements were collected on 2,714 young bulls at the time they entered one of three bull test stations operated by the Virginia Beef Cattle Improvement Association during the years 1982-1988. Scrotal circumference measurements were collected again at the time bulls completed the 140 day test-of-gain period. Because of a 14 day adaptation period the time between measurements was 154 days. Data were also collected for breed, days of age at start of test, weight at start and end of test, and frame score at end of test. Bulls ranged from 156 days to 371 days of age at start of test with an average of 257 days. The average beginning weight was 339 kg (range 182 to 575 kg) and the average ending weight was 530 kg (range 331 to 786 kg).