Brangus Facts
Why use Brangus bulls in commercial beef cattle production?
Bonsmara
• Calving problems with commercial Bonsmara heifers are reduced drastically (Birth weight less than 1.1, ± 32kg) when Brangus bulls are used (especially when used early -18 months old);
• Progeny polled (Possible scures on bull calves)
• Maximum Heterose (“Basterkrag”) – Crossed with five breeds (Afrikaner, Angus, Brahman, Hereford, Shorthorn)
• Keeps the medium frame female animals (most economic)
Drakensberger
• Retain Black colour on black Brangus bulls. Possible color change when red bull is used.
• Progeny polled (Possible scures on bull calves)
• Maximum Heterosis – three breed cross
• Cross will produce medium frame females
Brittish Breeds (Angus, Sussex, etc.)
• Improves adaptability;
• Progeny polled (Possible scures on bull calves)
• Keeps the medium frame female animals (most economic) & early maturing;
• Improves smooth skin/ short hair.
White faced breeds (Simmentaler, Hereford)
• Improves pigmentation around the eye (“sit brille op”);
• Improved adaption to SA conditions;
• Progeny polled (Possible scures on bull calves)
• Ideal for heifers due to low Brangus birth weight (±32kg);
Synthetic breeds (Santa Gertrudis, Beefmaster)
• Progeny polled (Possible scures on bull calves)
• Ideal for heifers due to low Brangus birth weight (±32kg).
Other white face Synthetic breeds (Simbra, Braford, etc.)
• Improves pigmentation around the eye (“sit brille op”);
• Progeny polled (Possible scures on bull calves)
• Ideal for heifers due to low Brangus birth weight (±32kg).
Source of information: Brangus Cattle Breeders Society of South Africa
