Ideal Condition Ideal condition. Thrifty with normal muscle structure. Ribs are fully covered with noticeable sponginess over the foreribs and on each side of the tailhead. Fat Condition Fat. Considerable fat around tailhead, over the shoulder and ribs, and in the brisket.
Animal takes on a smooth, blocky appearance with no evidence of visible hooks.
For optimum reproductive and economic efficiency females should be at a BCS of 5-6 at the time of calving. As a matter of fact, calving difficulties are more prevalent in thin heifers and they require more days to return to estrus and rebreed. Their calves also suffer as they tend to be weaker at birth and the heifer's milk quality tends to be poorer. Don't forget about your breeding bulls. Making sure they return to a moderate body condition now, will prepare them for the breeding season next spring.