Animal Science

2021—How do I legally sell meat from my own livestock and poultry in Florida?

Chad Carr, Jason Scheffler, and Matthew Johansson

This publication provides information for Florida residents who want to sell meat and poultry from their own livestock and poultry. Written by Chad Carr, Jason Scheffler, and Matthew Johansson, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, revised August 2021.

4-H Swine Record Book 2

Debbie Glauer

Acceptability of Rhizoma Peanut Forage by Horses and Its Benefits on Feeding Behavior

C. Vasco, J. Dubeux, E. Santos, C. Wickens, and L. Warren

Rhizoma peanut hay has been demonstrated to benefit horses’ feeding behavior with reduced inactive time, which can result in lower risk for abnormal behaviors in stabled horses. This publication is intended to provide information to Extension agents, horse owners, and equine facility managers. Written by C. Vasco, J. Dubeux, E. Santos, C. Wickens, and L. Warren, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, October 2023.

Adding Value to Livestock with Niche Meat Marketing Programs

Chad Carr, Larry Eubanks, and Ryan Dijkhuis

Addition of Exogenous Fibrolytic Enzymes to Lactating Dairy Cow Diets

S. L. Bennett and A. P. Faciola

This report summarizes information on the usage of exogenous enzymes, such as their modes of action and effectiveness in lactating dairy cows. Written by S. L. Bennett and A. P. Faciola, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, March 2022.

Additional Nutritional Considerations for Preconditioning Beef Calves

Philipe Moriel

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Animal Systems

Alternative Feeds for Beef Cattle

R. O. Myer and Matt Hersom

Analysis of the USDA’s 2017 Cow-Calf Management Practices Results: Part 1—Calf Crop and Calving Distribution

Angela Gonella, Oscar Alejandro Ojeda-Rojas, João Bittar, and Mario Binelli

This publication analyzes the calf-crop and calving distribution data reported on NAHMS Beef 1997 and provides insights and practical recommendations. Written by Angela Gonella, Oscar Alejandro Ojeda-Rojas, João Bittar, and Mario Binelli, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, November 2021.

Analysis of the USDA’s 2017 Cow-Calf Management Practices Results: Part 2—Breeding Practices/Reproductive Technologies

Mario Binelli, João Bittar, and Angela Gonella

This paper discusses the use of breeding practices and reproductive technologies in cow-calf operations, and the ways they affect calf crop. Written by Mario Binelli, João Bittar, and Angela Gonella, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, December 2021.

Analysis of the USDA’s 2017 Cow-Calf Management Practices Results: Part 3—Natural Service and Bull Management

João Bittar, Mario Binelli, and Angela Gonella

This article aims to present and discuss the most common management practices related to bull use that can impact cow-calf production and to share relevant statistics of bull use based on the last USDA surveys. Written by João Bittar, Mario Binelli, and Angela Gonella, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, September 2022.

Anhidrosis in the Horse (Non-Sweaters)—What Do We Know?

Laura Patterson-Rosa, Martha F. Mallicote, Robert J. MacKay, and Samantha A. Brooks

Antibiotic Use and Resistance for Beef Cattle Producers

Chad Carr, Matt Hersom, K. C. Jeong, Nicolas DiLorenzo, Jason Scheffler, Gina Faniola, Stephanie Miller, Haley Denney, Victoria Roberts, Nahilia Williams, Bianca McCracken

Application of Ionophores in Cattle Diets

Matt Hersom and Todd Thrift

Are Cows Comfortable in Modern Dairy Facilities?

Izabella Toledo

Understanding cows needs and their natural behaviors allows us to adjust facilities in order to optimize cow comfort and subsequent productivity and profitability. 

Avian Diseases Transmissible to Humans

Michael A. Davis, Gary D. Butcher, and F. Ben Mather

Avian Influenza in Poultry

J. P. Jacob, G. D. Butcher, F. B. Mather, and R. D. Miles

Basic Nutrient Requirements of Beef Cows

Matt Hersom

Best Practice Checklist for Management of a Swine Show for Youth

Chad Carr and Justin Crosswhite

Biosecurity and Biological Risk Management for Livestock Enterprises

Matt Hersom, Max Irsik, and Todd Thrift

Body Condition Scores Before and After Calving Modulate Pregnancy Success of Beef Cows in Florida

Philipe Moriel, Vinicius Izquierdo, and Joao Vendramini

This publication was developed to help beef cattle producers understand the impacts of cow body condition score (BCS) before and after calving on cow and calf productive performance in Florida. Written by Philipe Moriel, Vinicius Izquierdo, and Joao Vendramini, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, February 2025.

Calculating Calf Performance in Beef Operations: The University of Florida Beef Herds in the 2019–2020 Calving Season

Mario Binelli, Angela M. Gonella-Diaza, Thiago Martins, Cecilia C. Rocha, Felipe A. C. C. Silva, Federico Tarnonsky, Sergio Roskopf, Owen Rae, Danny Driver, Nicolas DiLorenzo, Jose Dubeux, and David Thomas

This article aims to report the calf performance of two beef herds of the University of Florida, located in north (UF/IFAS NFREC, Marianna) and central Florida (Beef Units, Gainesville). Written by Mario Binelli, Angela M. Gonella-Diaza, Thiago Martins, Cecilia C. Rocha, Felipe A. C. C. Silva, Federico Tarnonsky, Sergio Roskopf, Owen Rae, Danny Driver, Nicolas DiLorenzo, Jose Dubeux, and David Thomas, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, February 2022.

Calculating Reproductive Performance in Beef Operations: The University of Florida Beef Herds’ 2019 Breeding Season

Mario Binelli, Angela M. Gonella-Diaza, Thiago Martins, Cecilia C. Rocha, Felipe A. C. C. Silva, Federico Tarnonsky, Sergio Roskopf, Owen Rae, Danny Driver, Nicolas DiLorenzo, Jose Dubeux, and David Thomas

This publication reviews the basic calculations of reproductive performance and reports the reproductive performance of two University of Florida beef herds. Written by Mario Binelli, Angela M. Gonella-Diaza, Thiago Martins, Cecilia C. Rocha, Felipe A. C. C. Silva, Federico Tarnonsky, Sergio Roskopf, Owen Rae, Danny Driver, Nicolas DiLorenzo, Jose Dubeux, and David Thomas, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, May 2021.

Care of Baby Chicks

Christopher DeCubellis

Provides basic overview of the care of chicks, brooder requirements, space requirements, what to do when chicks arrive, feeding, and keeping chicks healthy.

Caring for the Older Horse: Common Problems and Solutions

Edward L. Johnson, Kylee Jo Duberstein, and Mark Shuffitt

Certified Beef Programs: What’s in a Name?

Tracy Scheffler, Jason Scheffler, and Chad Carr

This publication discusses certified beef programs and carcass quality specifications. Written by Tracy Scheffler, Jason Scheffler, and Chad Carr, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, October 2021.

Common Hazards Associated with Sheep and Goat Feed

Chalise Brown, Diwakar Vyas, and Jason M. Scheffler

Common Hazards to Consider During Manufacturing of Feed for Beef and Dairy Cattle

Taylor Langford, Matthew Hersom, Luiz Ferraretto, Antonio Faciola, Chad Carr, and Jason Scheffler

Common Hazards to Consider During Manufacturing of Feeds for Horses

Jason M. Scheffler, Taylor N. Langford, Carissa Wickens, and Lori Warren

Common Hazards to Consider during Manufacturing of Feeds for Swine

Taylor Langford, Morgan McKinney, Chad Carr, and Jason M. Scheffler

A UF/IFAS numbered peer reviewed Fact Sheet. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Food Systems

Common Hazards to Consider during the Manufacturing of Poultry Feed

Jessica Brown, Ashley Cavallo, Lindsay Zombek, Carli Brown, Arianna Minnie, Mindi Dennis, Gabrielle Allen, and Jason M. Scheffler

This publication aims to provide a list of common hazards to consider when manufacturing poultry feeds. Written by Jessica Brown, Ashley Cavallo, Lindsay Zombek, Carli Brown, Arianna Minnie, Mindi Dennis, Gabrielle Allen, and Jason M. Scheffler, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, October 2021.

Common Poultry Diseases

G. D. Butcher, J. P. Jacob, and F. B. Mather

Comparison of Hay or Round Bale Silage as a Means to Conserve Forage

Matt Hersom, Todd Thrift, and Joel Yelich

Conducting a Successful Livestock Show for Youth

Chad Carr, Justin Crosswhite, Jennifer Shike, and Heather Shultz

Considerations for Selecting a Bull

Martha Thomas and Matt Hersom

Converting the Beef Cow Herd to a Controlled Breeding Season

Mario Binelli, Thiago Martins, Tim Wilson, Cindy Sanders, Mark Warren, Matt Hersom, and Curt Lacy

This report aims to provide guidance to producers on practical aspects for moving from a system with no defined breeding season to a system with a defined season. Written by Mario Binelli, Thiago Martins, Tim Wilson, Cindy Sanders, Mark Warren, Matt Hersom, and Curt Lacy, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, revised January 2023.

Corn Gluten Feed for Beef Cattle

Bob Myer and Matt Hersom

Criando gallinas ponedoras en el patio

Mary E. Henry, Jessica M. Ryals, Alicia Halbritter y Derek L. Barber. Traducido por Jonael Bosques y Francisco Rivera

Los recursos informativos para vender huevos o producir a gran escala también son provistos en esta publicación. Este documento es el AN239-Span, uno de una serie del Departamento de Ciencias Animales, UF/IFAS Extension. Publicación original de septiembre de 2023.

Cull Whole Peanuts as a Feed Supplement for Beef Cows

Bob Myer, Gary Hill, and Matt Hersom

Culling and Replacement Rate in the Beef Cow Herd

Matt Hersom, Todd Thrift, and Joel Yelich

Custom and Retail Exempt Meat Processing

Chad Carr, Larry Eubanks, and Ryan Dijkhuis

Diagnóstico de preñez en ganado de carne

Maria Camila Lopez Duarte, Kalyn Waters, Nick Simmons y Angela Gonella

Este documento está dirigido a productores de ganado de carne, trabajadores del campo y agentes de Extensión con el propósito de brindar información sobre los métodos de detección y diagnóstico de preñez disponibles en la actualidad. Este documento es AN394-Span, una publicación del Department of Animal Sciences, UF/IFAS Extension. Fecha original de la publicación: enero 2025.

Distiller Grains for Beef Cattle Feeding

Bob Myer, Travis Maddock, and Matt Hersom

Does the Method of Castration Affect Calf Performance?

Trey Warnock, Matt Hersom, and Todd Thrift

Economic Feasibility of Cooling Dry Cows: Findings and Spreadsheet

Fernanda Ferreira, Geoffrey Dahl, and Albert De Vries

Effect of Age at Castration on Beef Calf Performance

Amie Imler, Todd Thrift, Matt Hersom, and Joel Yelich

Estrus Synchronization Protocols for Natural Service

Daniella Heredia, Angela Gonella-Diaza, and Kalyn Waters

This publication is intended for producers interested in improving the reproductive efficiency and performance of their cows. This publication explains the process of estrus synchronization and the protocols that can be used for natural service synchronization. Written by Daniella Heredia, Angela Gonella-Diaza, and Kalyn Waters, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, February 2025.

Factors Affecting Egg Production in Backyard Chicken Flocks

Jacqueline P. Jacob, Henry R. Wilson, Richard D. Miles, Gary D. Butcher, and F. Ben Mather

Factors that Affect Calf Selling Price at Marketing

Matt Hersom and Todd Thrift

Facts and Frequently Asked Questions About Lean, Finely-Textured Beef

Chad Carr, Dwain Johnson, Joel Brendemuhl, and Larry Eubanks

Feeding Ensiled Citrus Pulp to Finishing Pigs

J. D. Crosswhite, N. B. Myers, A. T. Adesogan, J. H. Brendemuhl, D. D. Johnson, and C. C. Carr

Feeding Food Wastes to Swine

M. L. Westendorf and R. O. Myer

Feedstuff Considerations for Feeding Bulls

Matt Hersom and Todd Thrift

Financial Impacts of Late-Gestation Heat Stress on Cow and Offspring Lifetime Performance

L. T. Casarotto, J. Laporta, and G. E. Dahl

This publication describes the financial implications of ignoring heat stress in dry cows to assist dairy producers in decisions about installation of heat abatement measures and cooling cows in that stage of the production cycle. Written by L. T. Casarotto, J. Laporta, and G. E. Dahl, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, November 2021.

Florida 4-H Dairy Record Book

Karen Hamilton, Chris Decubellis, Chris Holcomb, and Sarah Hensley

Florida 4-H Poultry Project Record Book

Chris Decubellis

Florida Cow-Calf and Stocker Beef Safety and Quality Assurance Handbook: Food Safety Control Points

Todd A. Thrift, Matt J. Hersom, and Max Irsik

Florida Cow-Calf and Stocker Beef Safety and Quality Assurance Handbook: Introduction

Todd A Thrift, Matt J. Hersom, and Max Irsik

Florida Cow-Calf and Stocker Beef Safety and Quality Assurance Handbook: Quality Control Points

Todd A. Thrift, Matt J. Hersom, and Max Irsik

Florida Cow-Calf and Stocker Beef Safety and Quality Assurance Handbook: Record Keeping for Beef Qualtiy Assurance

Todd A Thrift, Matt J. Hersom, and Max Irsik

Food Processing: The Meat We Eat

Erica L. Bub, Keith Schneider, Chad Carr, and Matt Hersom

Galloping into the Future: Genetic Tips and Tools for the Horse Owner

Laura Patterson Rosa, Carissa Wickens, and Samantha A. Brooks

Genetic Markers for Resistance to Gastrointestinal Parasites in Sheep and Goats from the Southern Region of the United States

Zaira M. Estrada Reyes, Yoko Tsukahara, Arthur L. Goetsch, Terry A. Gipson, Tilahun Sahlu, Richard Puchala, and Raluca G. Mateescu

This publication discusses a research project designed to explore the genetics of resistance to gastrointestinal parasites in sheep and goats. Written by Zaira M. Estrada Reyes, Yoko Tsukahara, Arthur L. Goetsch, Terry A. Gipson, Tilahun Sahlu, Richard Puchala, and Raluca G. Mateescu, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, January 2022.

Genetic Selection for Gaits in the Horse

Laura Patterson Rosa, Carissa Wickens, and Samantha A. Brooks

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. Published by Animal Systems

Growing Calf and Show Steer Feed Management

Matt Hersom and Todd Thrift

Growth of Generic E. coli and Aerobic Bacteria on Beef Muscle held at 50°F for 8 Hours

Larry Eubanks, Chad Carr, and Chris Pantaleo

Harvesting, Storing, and Feeding Forages as Round Bale Silage

Matt Hersom and William E. Kunkle

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) Principle 7: Establish Record Keeping and Documentation Procedures

Larry Eubanks, Chad Carr, and Ronald H. Schmidt

How Are Cows Cooled on Dairy Farms in Florida?

Bethany Dado-Senn, Geoffrey E. Dahl, and Jimena Laporta

How Do I Legally Sell Meat from Alligators, Wild Game, or My Farmed Game or Birds in Florida 2021?

Chad Carr, Jason Scheffler, and Michael Fioretto

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Animal Systems

How Much Does Bad Hay Cost a Beef Cattle Producer?

Matt Hersom and Todd Thrift

How the Veterinary Feed Directive Affects Cattle Owners

Matt Hersom, Todd Thrift, and Joel Yelich

How to Measure Body Condition Score in Florida Beef Cattle

Matt Hersom and Todd Thrift

Identificación del Estrés Térmico en Vacas Lecheras

Izabella Toledo y Geoffrey Dahl

Implants for Cow-Calf and Stocker Beef Cattle

Matt Hersom and Todd Thrift

Implications of Cow Body Condition Score on Productivity

Matt Hersom, Todd Thrift, and Joel Yelich

Implications of Round Bale Dimensions on Hay Use

Matt Hersom, Todd Thrift, and Joel Yelich

Inclusion of Direct-Fed Microbials in Lactating Dairy Cow Diets

S. L. Bennett and A. P. Faciola

This report summarizes the information relating to the usage of direct-fed microbials, such as their modes of action and effectiveness in lactating dairy cows. Written by S. L. Bennett and A. P. Faciola, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, December 2021.

Incorporating Brahman Genetics in the Cow Herd to Alleviate Heat Stress

Kaitlyn Sarlo Davila, Heather Hamblen, Serdal Dikmen, Peter Hansen, Todd Thrift, and Raluca Mateescu

Incorporating Brahman genetics into the cow herd alleviates heat stress. This publication discusses Brahman adaptation, challenges and benefits, and recommended Brahman incorporation. Written by Kaitlyn Sarlo Davila, Heather Hamblen, Serdal Dikmen, Peter Hansen, Todd Thrift, and Raluca Mateescu, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, October 2021.

Incorporating Growth Performance with Youth Market Hog Shows

Chad Carr and Travis Arp

Infectious Bronchitis Virus: Classical and Variant Strains

Gary D. Butcher, David P. Shapiro, and Richard D. Miles

Insect Bite Hypersensitivity in Horses

Rosanna Marsella, Nicky Craig, Carissa Wickens, and Samantha Brooks

Insect bite hypersensitivity, an allergy to the bites of such insects as mosquitoes, biting flies, and Culicoides species (biting midges or "no-see-ums") is one of the most common allergies in horses. This article describes allergic skin disease in horses and its management, and provides steps for insect bite sensitivity in particular to control the itching, treat secondary infections, and prevent further bites.

Intestinal and Tracheal Parasites of Poultry

Gary D. Butcher and Michael A. Davis

La Ley de Modernización para la Seguridad Alimentaria (FSMA): Controles Preventivos para los Alimentos de Animales

Francisco Rivera, Chad Carr, y Jason M. Scheffler

Lamb and Variety Meat Retail Identification Cuts

Brian Estevez, Chad Carr, and Larry Eubanks

Management of Postpartum Anestrus in Beef Cows

Kalyn Bischoff, Vitor R. G. Mercadante, and G. Cliff Lamb

Mastitis in Small Ruminants

Izabella Toledo and Justina Dacey

Mastitis often reduces animal performance and productivity as well as farm profitability. The purpose of this article is to help small ruminant producers to identify, treat, control, and prevent mastitis in small ruminants. Written by Izabella Toledo and Justina Dacey, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, September 2021.

Methods of Trace Mineral Supplementation

Matt Hersom and Todd Thrift

Milking Management Program: Proper Milking Procedures to Optimize Milking Efficiency and Milk Quality

Izabella Toledo

The purpose of this article is to help producers and herd managers improve milking management and produce high-quality milk. The article may be used as a training tool for new and existing employees. Written by Izabella Toledo, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, October 2021.

Mycoplasma Gallisepticum - A Continuing Problem in Commercial Poultry

Gary D. Butcher

Nursing Calf Deworming

Jeffrey N. Carter and Matthew J. Hersom

Nutrition at Early Stages of Life Determines the Future Growth and Reproductive Performance of Beef Calves

Philipe Moriel

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet for Commercial audience(s). in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Animal Systems

Nutrition at Early Stages of Life Determines the Future Growth and Reproductive Performance of Dairy Calves

Philipe Moriel and Fernanda Batistel

This fact sheet summarizes some of the research conducted in calf nutrition and nutrition’s impact on the growth and reproductive performance of dairy calves. Written by Philipe Moriel and Fernanda Batistel, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, revised November 2021.

Nutritional Management of Bulls

Matt Hersom and Todd Thrift

Pasture Stocking Density and the Relationship to Animal Performance

Matt Hersom

Phase-Feeding the Beef Herd for Improved Feed Utilization

Matt Hersom

Potential for Gossypol Toxicity When Feeding Whole Cottonseed to Beef Cattle

R. O. Myer, L. R. McDowell, and M. J. Hersom

Practical Uses for Ultrasound in Managing Beef Cattle Reproduction

Mario Binelli, Thiago Martins, John Arthington, Kalyn Waters, Vitor Mercadante, Philipe Moriel, and Angela Gonella-Diaza

This publication aims to discuss the use of ultrasound to assist with beef cattle reproduction, which includes evaluation of the pre-service status of heifers and cows, diagnosis of pregnancy, determination of fetal age and sex, and evaluation of reproductive fitness of embryo recipients. Written by Mario Binelli, Thiago Martins, John Arthington, Kalyn Waters, Vitor Mercadante, Philipe Moriel, and Angela Gonella-Diaza, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, revised April 2023.

Pre-Breeding Considerations for the Development of Replacement Beef Heifers

Pedro L. P. Fontes, Nicky Oosthuizen, Carla D. Sanford, and G. Cliff Lamb

Preconditioning Calves Using Co-products

Matt Hersom, Todd Thrift, and Joel Yelich

Pregnancy Diagnosis on Beef Cattle Today

Maria Camila Lopez Duarte, Kalyn Waters, Nick Simmons, and Angela Gonella

This publication is directed to beef producers, farmworkers, and Extension agents with the purpose of providing information regarding current pregnancy diagnosis methods for beef cattle. Written by Maria Camila Lopez Duarte, Kalyn Waters, Nick Simmons, and Angela Gonella and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, May 2024.