What makes a good Angus?
Angus cattle should be free from external and internal parasites, breathing issues and other health conditions to ensure the herd is strong and durable. This is a necessity if you are going to succeed with cattle farming.
Strategies for Finding Quality Red Angus Cattle
More and more cattle farmers are starting to turn their attention toward Red Angus cattle, which display excellent growth rate, adaptability to harsh weather conditions, and superior carcass quality, among other benefits. However, with such a diverse gene pool, you really do need to take the time and effort to properly identify and select the best animals to add to your herd. Keep reading for a few key strategies for finding high-quality Red Angus cattle that you can use on your farm.
Start with a Reputable Breeder
The best place to find quality Red Angus cattle is from a reputable breeder. A breeder’s individual commitment to the breed is particularly important—make sure to ask about their breeding practices and emphasis on selecting the best animals for sale.
Pay Attention to EPDs
In choosing a Red Angus cow, pay close attention to Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs), which indicate individual genetic traits. EPDs are particularly useful in evaluating females, as they can determine which cow will produce the most genetically superior offspring.
Look for Calving Ease
When selecting a bull, calving ease should be a major consideration. Whether novice or experienced, it’s always a good idea to select a bull with a low-to-moderate birth weight EPD rating in order to ensure the safest delivery with minimal assistance.
Invest in Quality Genetics
When starting a new herd of Red Angus cattle, it is essential to invest in quality genetics. Crossbreeding proven superior genetics with slower-maturing, highly marbled cattle can result in animals preferable for commercial markets and steers best suited for carcass competitions.
Evaluate Their Frame and Movement
Finally, individuals should evaluate the physical traits of the bull and cow. Look for a well-developed creature with deep peaks that reach the elbow and ample muscling. When it comes to movement, pick those that have natural way of walking, with a smooth lift and a minimal dip in their shoulders.
Conclusion
By following these guidelines, farmers can identify and select the finest Red Angus cattle for their herds. Make sure you take the time to thoroughly evaluate each animal, as it will make all the difference in the quality of your herd and your overall success as a cattle farmer.
Finding quality Red Angus cattle can be a daunting task, but with a bit of research and the right strategies in place, it’s possible to ensure that you are only investing in the best stock available. The Red Angus breed is an attractive breed for many reasons, including its hardiness, ability to produce great quality beef, and fairness of price. Here are a few strategies that can help you find quality Red Angus cattle:
1. Do Your Research: As part of the research process, you should familiarize yourself with the breed standard, as well as the characteristics that make a Red Angus animal an ideal one to purchase. You should also assess the availability and cost of feed, pastureland, and other resources that may be required in order to properly care for your cattle.
2. Know Your Breeders: Once you’ve done your research, the next step should be to seek out reputable breeders in your area. Ask for references from other producers, get to know potential breeders, and develop a relationship with them. Contact the American Red Angus Association to get a list of certified breeders in your area.
3. Inspect the Animals: Once you’ve identified a few good breeders, it’s important to inspect the animals for yourself before making a purchase. Look for redness, soundness of legs, overall muscle shape, structure, udder quality, and fecal consistency. Any animal that does not conform to the breed standards should be avoided.
4. Purchase Quality Genetics: When purchasing Red Angus cattle, it’s important to invest in animals with a high quality genetic background. Look for animals with a reputable sire and pedigree. If possible, look at the production records of both the sire and dam to help you make an informed decision.
5. Ask About Vaccines and Health History: Ask the breeder about the health history and vaccine protocol used for the animals. Quality Red Angus cattle should be vaccinated regularly to help prevent common ailments and illnesses.
By following these strategies, you can be sure that you are investing in quality Red Angus cattle that will be a valuable addition to your herd. With a little patience and research, finding the perfect Red Angus animals can be achieved.
