* Calves: Young cattle, usually under a year old, that are still being nursed by their mothers.
* Yearlings: Cattle that are between one and two years old.
* Steers: Castrated male cattle.
* Heifers: Female cattle that have not yet had a calf.
* Cows: Female cattle that have had at least one calf.
Key characteristics of stock cattle:
* Bred for meat: Stock cattle are primarily raised for their meat, which is used for consumption or processed into other products like ground beef, steaks, and roasts.
* Typically raised on pasture: They are often grazed on open pastures or rangeland, where they feed on grasses and other forages.
* Can be sold at various ages and weights: Depending on their age and weight, stock cattle can be sold for slaughter or further fattening before slaughter.
* Important part of the beef industry: Stock cattle form a crucial link in the beef supply chain, providing the raw materials for meat production.
It's important to note that "stock cattle" can be distinguished from "seedstock," which refers to breeding cattle used for genetic improvement and producing offspring for the beef industry.
Overall, "stock cattle" is a broad term that encompasses all cattle raised for meat production, regardless of their age, sex, or breed.