What are simmentals used for?
The Simmental has historically been used for dairy and beef, and as draught animals. They are particularly renowned for the rapid growth of their young, if given sufficient feed. Simmentals provide more combined weaning gain (growth) and milk yield than any other breed.
What is special about Simmental cattle?
In crossbreeding, the Simmental has proved very successful. It provides good growth, a large frame and thus a better beef yield to its crossbred progeny. It improves the quality of the meat with white fat and excellent marbling. It improves the milk yield, resulting in strong development of the calves in suckler herds.
What are the characteristics of Simmental?
Simmentals are well-muscled animals, being long and deep-bodied with strong bone. They have good temperament and high milk production. Simmental carcases are significantly heavier and leaner than other European breeds, with little waste, and they give a higher yield of saleable meat.
How much is a Simmental heifer worth?
7P Ranch Annual Production Sale
| # | Simmental Commercial | Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | open heifers | $1,100 |
| 104 | bred heifers | $653 |
| 2 | fall pairs | $3,300 |
| 107 | total lots | $707 |
Are simmentals docile?
The Simmental is known for its docile, relaxed demeanor. It is easy to handle and, if accustomed to humans at an early age, may even become petlike in its demands for attention. Although Simmental cows typically do not object to having a trusted owner handle their calves, they may become protective around strangers.
Are Simmental cattle good to eat?
Totally. The Simmental beef is well-marbled, which gives it a pretty good tenderness. The beef yield from Simmental is high and cattle that are only half Simmental still inherit from their Simmental parents the genes that make their carcasses an outstanding source of great, high-quality meat.
Are Simmental cattle gentle?
no. Many farmers claim Simmental are very docile and easy to handle, but Simmental cows can get pretty aggressive when they are protecting their little Simmental calves.
How many cows do you need to make a living?
Usually 2 or more. A cow usually has some fool to feed her, and they make a very comfortable living. Most of the time they get a job with water, an occasional conjugal visit, and plenty of grass and usually some shelter.
What are some disadvantages of Simmental cattle?
Cons
- Sometimes expensive.
- Variable hardiness.
- Large feed and pasture requirements.
- Poor calving ease (better in black Simmentals).
- Low calf vigor.
- Need for large quantities of grain for beef finishing.
- Less-than-ideal beef tenderness.
Are simmentals easy Calvers?
Ease of Calving – Simmental has the reputation as being a very easy calving Continental breed, an attribute that is now more important than ever due to the increased number of part time farmers involved in suckling.
What is the hardiest breed of cattle?
Scotch Highland As one of the hardiest breeds, they survive in poor conditions where other cattle perish. Calves are born small but grow rapidly. Mature animals are small compared to most beef breeds.