Rancher Fred, I am no geneticist so Im sorta taking a blind stab at this, but would'nt the damn determine gestation time or length? I could see the bull having an influence on his calves when they start having babies. I was always under the impression that it was the dams internal and biological clock which decided how long the baby cooked in the womb. This is sorta similar to the "chicken or the egg" question. Is it the calf who has decided he has stayed inside long enough and thus initiates the labor? If this were the case, I could see the paternal side having a direct influence on gestation time. Or, is it the dam spurred into action by Mother Nature who determines when the new baby will make its appearence?
You actually asked a thouhht provoking question. I have never thought about this until now and my curiousity is for sure piqued. I know different breeds of cattle will oftentimes have differing amounts of time for gestation. I can't remember each breeds length of time, but if I recall correctly, there may be as much as 10 days disparity between some breeds.
We have used Beckton bulls on our cattle and have always had really good results. As a matter of fact we've got one out there now and I'm thinking we have two. I really like their bull program.
Again, that was a good question and I'm going to do a little research on this to try and find an answer.
Have a good day.
Tex
P.S.
We have been getting some much needed moisture here in NE Wyoming. Yesterday started pretty and in a bit the rains came and quickly turned to snow. This morning it has been a nice steady rain/snow mix.