Aberdeen-Angus Linear Assessment

What can we do to correct ‘bad’ locomotion?
This is a common question among many breeders. In order to make an assessment of the current situation within the breed, Meurig James has assessed the sale bulls forward for both October 2022 and February 2023 sales. These assessment scores, based on locomotion only, were compared with sale price to establish the relationship between locomotion score and price – see the graph to the right.

This analysis has shown that the biggest numbers of bulls were scored between 4 and 6 (average), with a still significant number were scored 3 or below, while a smaller number still were scored 7 or above. There were no bulls with scores 3 or below that achieved prices above £8000, while those scored 4-6 achieved up to £17,500.
It is also worth noting that those bulls scored 7 or above achieved prices topped at £11,000, but did not top the sale. It can be seen by the trend line (dotted line on the graph above) that the general trend, or relationship, between price and locomotion is positive, so that as the locomotion score increases so does the price. Demonstrating this positive relationship between locomotion score and price has been the catalyst for the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society to introduce a Linear Assessment, or type classification, which aims to provide an independent assessment of cows in your herd, reviewing the strengths and weaknesses to enhance longevity, health and welfare. It provides an overall classification score for your cows, which can substantially increase their value.