Calves are identified by an ear tag and weighed at birth. Because of the tight breeding program, most of the calves are born in a very close time interval. Weaning is done approximately 200-210 days after birth. Strict culling of heifers and bulls is done at weaning. Weights are taken on the animals and reported to the breed association, Beefmaster Breeders United (BBU). All animals which do not meet the strict requirements of our Program are sold at the local auction barn. When the calves reach twelve months of age, they are again weighed and inspected. A second cull is done to keep only those that meet our Program criteria.

Ultrasound measurements are taken when the calves reach yearling age. This data is used in selection of cattle to keep in the herd and also for sales data for those cattle selected to sell to breeders. Ultrasound information is also used in selection of bulls in the breeding program. Rancho Tres Hijos participates in the Whole Herd Reporting Program of the BBU.

All cattle over 18 months of age are tested for brucellosis and tuberculosis annually. Rancho Tres Hijos has been a Brucellosis Free Herd for the last 10 years.