Which production phase is described as keeping large numbers of cattle until they are finished for slaughter?

• A. Stocker
• B. Niche markets
• C. Feedlot
• D. Commercial cow calf

Answer: (C)

Finishing cattle in a feedlot is the stage where large numbers are kept and fed to reach slaughter weight. In a feedlot, cattle are concentrated in pens and given a high-energy, grain-based diet to maximize daily gains and efficiency as they approach market weight. This differs from the stocker phase, which uses forage and lighter management to grow calves after weaning to a lighter weight before moving to finishing. The commercial cow-calf phase focuses on producing calves and maintaining breeding herds, not finishing large groups for slaughter. Niche markets involve specialized products and are not about the finishing process.