Calculating adjusted 205 day weaning weights
The 205 day adjusted weight is one of the most helpful "expected progeny differences" (EPDs) referred to, when raising homestead & miniature beef cattle. This gives an across-breed comparison of the efficiency of a cow's calf production per acre of grass on the homestead. To calculate the adjusted 205-day weight, first determine the average daily gain (ADG). Subtract birth weight from the calf's current weight, then divide the sum by days of age. Multiply ADG by 205, then re-add the birth weight. Adjust as follows:
| If dam is | add for male calf | add for heifer calf |
| 2 years old | +60 lbs. | +54 lbs. |
| 3 years old | +40 lbs. | +36 lbs. |
| 4 years old | +20 lbs. | +18 lbs. |
| 5 to 10 years old | 0 | 0 |
| 11 years or over | +20 lbs. | +18 lbs. |
The final sum is the calf's adjusted 205-day weight.
Note: To calculate weight ratios, divide the individual’s adjusted 205-day weight by the average adjusted weight of the calf's group of herd mates or contemporaries, then multiply by 100.
Multi-Breed Genetic Evaluations EPDs: "A cautionary note regarding EPDs. They are only as good as the truth of the data being entered. When heritability percentages are added EPD's become even more of a "crap shoot"." ~ Joseph Schallberger, DVM PhD, Whispering Hills Farm
Homestead & Miniature Cattle Resource Directory
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