He suggests waiting until the bulls are 12 months old to perform a semen test. If they are younger than a year old, it isn t fair to the bull. They will have a better quality semen and the testicular measurement will be better if they are older, he says. The minimum scrotal circumference for a bull to pass Jungman s fertility test is 32 centimeters. A semen sample also is evaluated for sperm quality.
Older bulls tend to have stronger, healthier-looking sperm cells.
Hawkeye Breeders will semen check bulls and measure testicles, but it is up to a veterinarian to palpate the bulls or take a pelvic measurement. We are educated to evaluate the quality of the semen, but we leave the rest up to the vets. Many bulls will be sold at the upcoming Iowa Beef Expo. Jungman will take scrotal measurements for the Angus sale. Jungman reminds cattlemen there are differences between breeds.