Time is of the essence when a calving cow or heifer has a situation where the calf is coming backwards. If the umbilical cord is totally pinched by the pelvic rim, the calf can only survive about four minutes.

The coronavirus is another “black swan” that is different in some fundamental ways from other such events in cattle markets, such as the packing plant fire last year or even the first BSE case in late 2003.

Body condition at the time of calving is the most important factor affecting rebreeding performance of normally managed beef cows.

Cattle on feed data shows the largest number of cattle in feedlots during February since 2008, while placements were 99.4% of year ago, a little smaller than expected.

After calving, a normally healthy cow needs 52% more protein and a substantial increase in energy as she begins the lactation phase. Meeting those nutrition requirements will positively impact rebreeding.

Cattle traded in the south early in the week at $1 higher prices, suggesting packers were hungry for inventory.