1. Beef Cattle Breeds
By: Erin Bosch
Topic 3082A, B

2. Development of Breeds Many breeds originated in Europe
Selection for breeds was practiced in British Isles
Began in late 1700s
Most desirable traits were kept
Those without desired traits were culled (removed) from herd
Newer breeds develop in 20th century in U.S.
Exotic breeds became popular in 60s and 70s

3. Angus History Official name: Aberdeen-Angus
Originated in Scotland, in shires of Aberdeen and Angus
Earliest written records of Angus breeds in 1700s
In 1862, the first herdbook of Angus was published
First imports of Angus to U.S. was in 1873
Today, Angus breeds are found in every state

4. Angus Description Black color Smooth hair Polled
Have well-marbled meat
Alert
Vigorous

5. Angus
                                             

6. Charolais History Oldest French breed of beef cattle
Developed around Charolles in central France
Charolais started to be imported in 1930
First to Mexico, then from Mexico to Texas

7. Charolais Description
White to light straw color with pink skin
Heavily muscled breed
Mature cows weigh lbs
Mature bulls weight lbs
Most are naturally horned, with white horns
Well adapted to most areas
Used for many cross-breeding programs

8. Charolais

9. Chianina History Originated in Chiana Valley, Italy
One of oldest breeds of Italy and probably the world
Chianina semen was imported to U.S. in 1971

10. Chianina Description Original breed was white with a black switch
Skin pigment is black
High heat tolerant
Gentle
Bulls can weigh up to 4,000 lbs
Cows can weigh up to 2,400 lbs
Have fine-textured meat

11. Chianina

12. Hereford History Originate in Hereford, England
Early breeds were selected for high yield of beef
First purebred Hereford was started in 1817 in U.S.
Breed became popular in U.S. in 1870

13. Hereford Description White faces and red bodies
White on belly, legs and switch
Docile and easily handled
Produce more calves than any other breed in adverse conditions
Horned
Superior foragers and hardiness

14. Hereford

15. Brahman History
Developed in southwest US from imported breeds of India
Early breeds were selected for hardiness
Ability to produce in southwest climate was also selected for
Used in development of newer breeds of cattle

16. Brahman Description Light gray or red to almost black color
Most common color is light to medium gray
Characteristic hump over the shoulders
Loose skin, called the dewlap, under the throat
Large drooping ears
Have high heat tolerance
Resistant to disease and insects

17. Brahman