ABERDEEN-ANGUS LINEAR ASSESSMENT IMPLEMENTATION
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.
Traits included in classification
Linear assessment involves the measurement of 24 individual traits on a scale of 1-9, describing the degree of the trait rather than its desirability. It is all about balance. The summary of weighting in the end total (Overall Type Classification Score) are as follows:
Scoring system used across beef breeds is: Legs & feet- 30%
Udder- 20%
Body- 25%
Breed Character- 25%
Linear assessment fees
This scheme is voluntary and funded by the breeder. The costs associated with herd assessment are as follows:
Booking your herd assessment
To book a herd assessment please use the online form on the website which can be accessed at: https://www.aberdeen-angus.co.uk/linear-assessment-contactform/
What to expect following scoring
Scores will be uploaded to the ABRI database by your assessor and will be displayed against individual animals
Image of Simmental individual animal display:
The individual scoring will work along the following guidelines:
