TWINS

[SKF]

We just started our calveing season and so far 2 sets of twins! The first set we lost the bull calf and the second set we lost the heifer calf. On both sets the 2nd calf was not position right and had to be pulled. The set born today were large calves for being twins, 80lbs. Both sets out of the same bull, out Heatwave son. Anyone else getting a lot of twins this year or is it just our bad luck. We won't be done with calving season until Nov. and I think it will be a long season. Is there any reason that would be causing them to have twins?

 

[zak]

I know someone that had a bull that would throw atleast three sets of twins a year.

Zak

 

[firesweepranch]

If I understand it correctly, bulls have no control over twins. Twins are caused by multiple ovulation (fraternal) or an egg splitting after fertilization (identical). In any case, the bull has nothing to do with it. Genetics play a big role...

 

[lightnin4]

When I was in college a class I was in toured some ranches, feed lots, etc. over spring break one year.  One stop was the national meat animal research center in Nebraska.  At the time one of their research projects was on twinning.  They had a herd of cows that were known to have had twins previously or had been twins themselves.  Never read their results (they may still be running the research).  I know on our farm we have at least a couple of sets each year.  I had one cow that had three sets in the time we had her. 

 

[shortdawg]

I had three sets one year and all were liked sexed.

 

[DEF]

Had  2  sets  of  twins  myself