Breed Qualities

Of the approximately 40 registered beef breeds in South Africa, Brangus has shown remarkable adaptability to the harsher climate of the Free State. Below are some of the key qualities that form the foundation of the Brangus breed.

Brangus cattle boast several favourable qualities that make them a low-maintenance breed with high yield ratios. Their adaptability and resilience contribute to their robust constitution, making them easy to manage. Learn more about these qualities in the next section, as sourced from the Brangus Cattle Breeders Society of South Africa.

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Polled:

Brangus cattle are one of only three naturally polled breeds in South Africa. Additionally, they are the only composite/synthetic breed in South Africa that is naturally homozygous polled. This means that when Brangus bulls are used in any herd, up to 60% of the offspring in the first generation will be polled. Naturally polled cattle offer long-term advantages, as they are easier to handle and process, and you can save on the cost of dehorning.

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Cows naturally grazing n a harsh environment to indicate the hardiness of the Brangus breed

Adaptable and hardy:

Brangus cattle in South Africa are evaluated based on their constitution, which is defined as the ability to maintain good condition and efficient performance throughout the year with minimal requirements and maintenance. If the cattle have great constitution, cows are likely to get pregnant within a shorter period. In addition to their impressive adaptability, Brangus cattle are incredibly hardy animals. Through a rigorous process of natural selection, the breed has developed overall resilience, including disease resistance and excellent maternal instincts.

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Easy-care cows:

As part of their adaptability and hardiness, Brangus cows possess exceptional mothering abilities. They exhibit high fertility, a reliable temperament, and ease of calving. Calving ease is defined as a cow giving birth to a calf that weighs between 7-8% of her body weight at the time of birth. These cows also have great survival instincts, that includes functional udders that are easy for calves to suckle, as well as strong overall milk production.

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a close-up image of a cows eye and ear to showcase its coat

Coat and meat quality:

Hair coat traits are often indicators of cattle adaptability, as they help with heat regulation and parasite resistance—an advantage in South Africa's diverse landscape. The overall coat quality of cattle aids with the quality of the meat produced. The combination of two successful parent breeds brings together these unique traits. While Angus cattle are known for their top-quality carcasses, producing excellent beef, in South Africa breeders have yet to be fully recognized for Brangus meat quality. As noted by the Brangus Cattle Breeders Society of South Africa, they hope this will be acknowledged in the coming years.