Progeny Test 1
PT1 Spring 2025
PT1 Progress Report:
Parentage verification is now complete for our PT1 group, and we’ve refined the dataset to include only male (steer) calves for consistency. Based on this updated group, the recalculated average birth weight per sire for bull calves is 60 lbs.
We’ve also added data from our clean-up bulls, whose calves were born within a condensed calving window and now qualify for inclusion in PT1. Both AI sires and natural service sires are noted below, along with the average birth weights of their male progeny.
All PT1 calves have been dehorned and continue to develop well. The next major data point—200-day weights—will be collected in June and will offer more detailed insight into early growth performance and genetic influence.
PT1 Winter 2024
All calves from our PT1 progeny test arrived during fall 2024, and we’re already seeing promising indicators from the first round of data. Birth weights have aligned closely with sire EBVs (Estimated Breeding Values) for birth weight. For instance, offspring from SUMO MONJIRO Q51—who held the highest EBV in this trait—were also the heaviest at birth. This alignment between projected and actual performance reinforces the accuracy of BREEDPLAN metrics and underscores the effectiveness of our genetic planning. We’ve included a visual graph highlighting the average birth weights by sire to demonstrate this correlation.
At this stage, the PT1 calves are showing strong growth and are progressing well. They’re currently on creep feed and developing as expected. We will be collecting their 200-day weights in June 2025—an essential data point that will help us further evaluate growth trends and sire performance.
Looking ahead, these cow-calf pairs will be re-entering the breeding cycle in January 2025 to begin PT3. By maintaining this momentum, we’re able to build off the results of each test phase and continue advancing our goal of producing elite Wagyu genetics for future generations.
PT1 Summer 2024
To our fellow Wagyu producers and industry partners,
We’re excited to share a progress update on our WILD Progeny Test 2024-1 (PT1) and what we’ve learned so far. In January, we initiated PT1 by performing artificial insemination (AI) on 132 fullblood Wagyu cows. These matings are expected to result in calves being born in November 2024.
At the 84-day mark, our herd veterinarian conducted ultrasound checks, confirming 72 AI pregnancies—a 55% conception rate. While this number aligns with industry averages, it’s notably below our usual 70% success rate and fell short of our internal goals.
At Wilders Wagyu, we set a high bar for ourselves, so this outcome prompted honest reflection and an opportunity to improve. Here’s what we’ve learned from our analysis of the AI round:
1. Breeding Schedule Adjustments
Instead of spacing AI procedures across several days, we conducted them in large groups over just two. Looking ahead, we plan to reevaluate how we time these breedings or consider adding more AI technicians to help improve speed and efficiency without sacrificing success.
2. Impact of Environmental Stress
The PT1 group was worked in a brand-new facility that was unfamiliar to them, likely contributing to increased stress. Additionally, each dam had a calf at her side, and the process of separating pairs in the new space was less smooth than intended. We believe this added stress may have played a role in the lower conception rate.
3. Vaccine Timing Hypothesis
Another potential factor we’re keeping an eye on is the timing of pre-breeding vaccinations. For this group, vaccinations were administered shortly before insemination. As we head into our next AI round, we’ll move that timing earlier to see if it improves results.
The Silver Lining
Despite the lower-than-expected AI conception rate, Wagyu has continued to show exceptional fertility. Our clean-up bulls performed well, leading to an overall conception rate of 95%. Although we’ll have fewer PT1 pregnancies than initially planned, we are still on track with our private-label beef production goals.
At the heart of our work is a set of core values that shape every decision we make. The "I" in WILD stands for Intentional Adaptability—a value our team fully embraced when navigating the challenges of this cycle. We're committed to progress, not perfection, and believe that learning from our results is the key to pushing the industry forward.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. We’re grateful for the chance to share transparently, learn collaboratively, and build a stronger future for Wagyu in the U.S.
Until next time,
StayWILD,
Jake Newbold, Director of Agriculture
PT1 Spring 2024
Since launching our seedstock program, we’ve remained focused on driving progress within the Wagyu industry across the United States. Our team is constantly pushing to improve—asking how we can do things better and how to share our progress and findings with both our customers and the broader cattle community. By producing and analyzing large volumes of data, our goal is to offer transparency and help lay a stronger foundation for the future of the Wagyu breed.
A major initiative this year is the WILD Progeny Test 2024-1 (PT1).
What is the WILD Progeny Test?
This evaluation will measure the performance of six carefully selected sire lines by collecting both growth and carcass data over a 28-month period. We’ll identify the traits each sire passes on by examining their offspring across various matings.
Why does this test matter?
With this data-driven approach, we can apply measurable insights to improve Wagyu breeding programs and streamline production efficiency across the board. By leveraging our fullblood Wagyu herd for this test, we’re staying true to our “beef company first” mindset while continuing to grow our fullblood beef supply chain. Ultimately, the findings will reinforce the strength of our genetics and offer our customers greater confidence in their WILD genetic investments.
Will the results be shared?
Yes—data collected will be submitted to the Australian Wagyu Association in line with their BREEDPLAN reporting standards. We also plan to release key findings publicly to help support the advancement of the Wagyu industry.
How is the test being carried out?
The test includes a detailed collection of data points such as genetic lineage, age, weight, feed cost per head, days on feed, carcass weights, average daily gain, sire population, and carcass quality. We’re working closely with the Australian Wagyu Association to ensure our data aligns with industry standards.
Sires in the Study
We selected six diverse sire lines to ensure a well-rounded representation, with MAYURA L0010 serving as the link sire. AI was conducted in January 2024, with pregnancy check results to follow in April 2024.
After Calving
Each calf will be evaluated at birth for weight, sex, and calving ease, along with full dam information for pedigree tracking. At weaning, we’ll record 200-day weights and docility scores to assess early development and temperament.
As Calves Grow
Further growth data will be gathered through yearling weights at 400 days and ultrasound scans (between 300–800 days) to assess carcass characteristics. We’ll also collect weights at 600 days and again prior to harvest to monitor weight gain and feed efficiency.
At Harvest
We’ll record hot carcass weights (CWT) and capture images of the hanging carcasses. This stage will provide key carcass metrics like marbling scores, marbling fineness, and ribeye area—some of the most critical data in the entire study.
What We Aim to Achieve
This project will result in a valuable set of insights that will:
Inform smarter breeding decisions
Guide the selection of high-performing genetics for carcass quality
Advance growth trait knowledge within the Wagyu breed
Moving the Breed Forward
Each discovery throughout this process reinforces our ongoing commitment to scientific rigor and collaboration in the pursuit of excellence within the Wagyu breed.
We believe the results from this study will play a meaningful role in advancing Wagyu breeding practices and supporting long-term sustainability for producers worldwide.
