A functionally sound bull

The characteristics of a functionally sound Brangus bull:

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Breed inspectors look for several key characteristics when determining whether a bull is functionally sound. These qualities help establish clear guidelines for the Brangus breed and ensure that prospective bulls will be able to function comfortably and effectively. Bulls approved by inspectors are registered as SP Brangus bulls, which can be used on registered SP cows to produce SP calves.

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Alternatively, they can be used on commercial cows. If a prospective bull lacks certain characteristics and does not meet the breed inspector requirements, it will be classified as a commercial bull. The next key points are adapted from the 2019 Brangus Journal.

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Key characteristics:

• Bulls should display a strong, well-balanced body profile, with a forequarter that is broader and deeper than the hindquarter, giving it a wedge shape.
• They should have a muscular, strong head with lively eyes and a well-developed brow to protect the eyes.
• Bulls should exhibit clearly defined muscles, allowing their legs to stand parallel and wide apart. The thighs and shanks should also be well-muscled. The thickness of the upper forearm muscles is a good indicator of overall muscle coverage.
• Bulls should have well-placed hooves and legs, with healthy, strong claws that enable free, comfortable, and rhythmic movement, characterized by long, springy steps.
• Strong, firm bone development is desired, without being too fine or too coarse. Out-swinging, pointed, or overly prominent shoulders are undesirable traits.
• The bull’s ribcage should be firm with long, well-sprung ribs, indicating good muscle attachment and ample capacity, while keeping the shoulders and shoulder blades in proper position.
• Excessive localized fat deposits in the brisket, flanks, dewlap, tail-setting, and scrotum are typically undesirable. Over-fat bulls are unfit and unable to work efficiently in extensive veld conditions, and excessive fat in the scrotum can negatively impact fertility.
• Bulls should have a normal sheath with a small, forward-pointing opening. Loose hanging sheaths or larger openings increase the risk of injury.
• Testes should be well-developed, firm, equal in size, and properly positioned. A twisted or drawn-back scrotum is unfavourable.
• Bulls should exhibit a calm yet alert temperament.