Does the use of
hybrid bulls lead to a lot of genetic variation,
reducing uniformity and consistency?
Data from the Meat Animal Research
Center (MARC) shows that there is no more variation in
composite bulls compared to using purebred bulls.
The best way to increase uniformity is to manage breed
composition and have a short calving season. By
using our hybrid bulls, we manage the breed composition
for you.
Don't Simmental
create a lot more calving problems?
Recent data from Montana State
University on 1,600 calves shows there is less variation
between Angus and Simmental today compared to the
1970's. When you consider that all of the dams
were Angus heifers and that the birth weight of the
Simmental calves would be influenced by hybrid vigor,
you may realize there is little difference in the birth
weight of Angus compared to Simmental.
All of the dams in this project
were commercial Angus heifers!!!
Results indicate Simmental bulls
that are +10 or better for Direct Calving Ease will sire
similar calving ease scores as average Angus bulls (when
bred to British yearling heifers).
Averages of
Simmental and Angus A.I. Calves
Sire
Breed
Simmental
Angus/Red Angus
Gestation Length
282 days
279 days
Birth
Weight
77.6 lbs
73.1 lbs
Calving
Ease
1.41
1.29
# of
Calves
640
960
Calving Ease Score - 1 = no
difficulty, 2 = slight assistance, 3 slight assistance
requiring a calf puller and 4 = delivery cesarean
section..
How are Angus and
Simmental different in carcass traits?
There is still substantial
difference in the composition of the carcass.
Simmental cattle are still leaner and heavier muscled
than Angus. Using the data set from Montana State
University, you can see a definite advantage in using
Simmental to produce more favorable Yield Grades and the
use of Angus to produce more favorable Quality Grades.
Averages of
Simmental and Angus A.I. Calves (2000 & 2001)
Q & A