Breeds Of Beef Cattle In Ontario
Table of Contents
- Breed Comparisons
- Factors in Selection
- Common Breeds Of Beef Cattle In Ontario
- Other Breeds Of Beef Cattle In Ontario
- Related Links
Breed Comparisons
The environments and resources available to raise beef cattle are as
varied as the breeds themselves. Table 1 groups
breeds into biological types for four criteria. The table is based on
extensive research performed over the past 25 years at the Meat Animal
Research Centre in Clay Centre, Nebraska. Notice the tremendous variability
in the available breeds.
The table will help you compare breeds and rank them according to criteria
important to your herd and market, whether it is reproduction, growth,
carcass traits or a combination of them all. More information is available
on a breed-average basis for individual traits than is presented here,
but a large degree of variability can exist within a breed. Breeding decisions
involve individual animals, not breed averages, so selection of the right
individuals within a breed is critical. Use the information presented
here to familiarize yourself with available breeds and narrow down your
choices. Selection of individual animals for a breeding program will require
analysis of the individual’s genetic merit for the traits of interest.
Breed differences can be blamed for product inconsistency, but they can
also be exploited to produce adapted animals and a consistent product.
Table 1. Breeds Grouped
into Biological Types for Four Criteria* **
| Breed |
Growth Rate and Mature Size |
Lean to Fat Ratio |
Age at Puberty |
Milk Production |
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X X X X X
|
|
X
|
X X X
|
X X X
|
X X
|
|
X X X
|
X X
|
X X X
|
X X
|
|
X X
|
X X
|
X X
|
X X X
|
|
X X
|
X X
|
X X X
|
X X
|
|
X X X
|
X X
|
X X X
|
X X X
|
|
X X
|
X X X
|
X X X
|
X X
|
|
X X X
|
X X X
|
X X
|
X X X
|
|
X X X
|
X X X
|
X X
|
X X X
|
|
X X X
|
X X X
|
X X
|
X X X
|
|
X X X
|
X X
|
X X X X
|
X X
|
|
X X X
|
X X
|
X X X X
|
X X
|
|
X X
|
X X X
|
X X X X X
|
X X X
|
|
X X X X
|
X X X
|
X X X X X
|
X X X
|
|
X X X X
|
X X X
|
X X X X X
|
X X X
|
|
X X X X
|
X X X X
|
X X
|
X X X X
|
|
X X X X
|
X X X X
|
X X
|
X X X X
|
|
X X X X
|
X X X X
|
X X
|
X X X X X
|
|
X X X X X
|
X X X X
|
X X X
|
X X X X
|
|
X X X X X
|
X X X X
|
X X X
|
X X X
|
|
X X X X X
|
X X X X
|
X X X
|
X X X
|
|
X X X
|
X X X X X X
|
X X
|
X X
|
|
X X X
|
X X X X X
|
X X X X
|
X
|
|
X X X X
|
X X X X X
|
X X X X
|
X
|
|
X X X X
|
X X X X X
|
X X X X
|
X
|
*From Cundiff et al., 1993 BIF Proceeding
**Increasing number of X's indicate relatively higher values.
Factors in Selection
A number of factors must be considered when selecting breeds for either
a seedstock or a commercial program. Among these are:
- individual breeding goals
- environment
- quantity and quality of feeds available
- cost and availability of good seedstock
- how breeds will complement each other in a crossing program; and
- market-specific breed combinations may command market premiums.
If selecting breeds for a crossbreeding program note that scientists
involved in breed evaluation research generally recommend a 50/50 mix
of British and Continental breeding for the cow herd for most of North
America, excluding subtropical areas. Limited feed resources indicates
a higher percentage of British breeding. Where abundant feed resources
are available and/or maximum lean yield is desired, a higher percentage
of Continental breeding is recommended. For more information on crossbreeding
see OMAFRA Factsheet Crossbreeding Systems for Beef Production,
Order No. 01-011.
Common Breeds Of Beef Cattle In Ontario
A brief overview of the history, physical characteristics and dominant
traits of the beef cattle breeds common to Ontario follows. The breeds
in this section have substantial numbers in both purebred and commercial
operations and have undergone substantial selection programs over the
years. The breeds listed offer the genetics and selection required to
develop a breeding program suitable for the available market.
Angus
The Aberdeen Angus breed existed in Scotland 400 years ago and evolved
during the 19th century in northeast Scotland in the counties
of Angus and Aberdeen. The first Aberdeen Angus was imported into Canada
in 1860.
Angus cattle are solid black or red and are polled. Both colours are
registered in the Canadian Angus Association herd book. Angus are noted
for good maternal qualities and a high carcass quality. Angus cattle are
also recognized for their ability to forage under rugged conditions.
Figure 1.
An Angus bull.
Blonde d’Aquitaine
Blonde d’Aquitaine originated in the southwest of
France, where they developed as a dual-purpose breed. Animals are cream
to fawn coloured. The breed is horned and recognized primarily for its
beef characteristics and high yielding carcasses. The first Blondes were
introduced into Canada in 1971.
Figure 2.
The Blonde d’Aquitaine.
Charolais
Charolais, one of the oldest French breeds and the earliest European
import into Canada, arrived from the U.S. in 1955 and from France in 1967.
Originally, Charolais were used for meat, draft and milk, but have since
become specialized as a beef breed. Cattle of the Charolais breed are
large and heavy, white to cream-coloured and either horned or polled.
Through sire evaluation and breed improvement, they offer the beef industry
hardy cattle with rapid growth and good muscling.
Figure 3.
A Charlolais bull.
Gelbvieh
Gelbvieh or German Yellow Cattle evolved in the early 19th
century through the crossing of various breeds in northern Bavaria. This
produced a growthy dual-purpose animal that also served as a draft animal.
Gelbvieh have been in Canada since 1972. Emphasis in North America in
recent years has been on meat production.
The Gelbvieh is solid-coloured, reddish gold to russet, with fine dense
hair. They have good size, heavy muscling and are known for their desirable
carcass and strong maternal characteristics.
Figure 4. A Gelbvieh bull.
Hereford
The Hereford, one of the oldest cattle breeds, was developed in Herefordshire,
England. First importations into Canada were in 1860.
The Hereford is a reddish-brown colour with white on the head, brisket,
chest, underpart of the body, lower legs and tassel. The white face is
a dominant characteristic. Herefords can be either horned or polled.
Hereford cattle are extremely hardy and show excellent
foraging ability. Among beef breeds, they are not high milk producers
but have good growth potential and calve relatively easily. Their popularity
is shown by their continued use as a beef-producing animal that crosses
well with other breeds. Bulls are usually docile and easy to handle.
Figure 5.
A Hereford bull.
Limousin
The Limousin originated in the hill country of south-central France.
The cattle range from a golden wheat colour in the females to a deep red-gold
in the males, darkening somewhat with maturity and age. The Limousin has
always been selected for its meat qualities. Referred to as the "carcass
breed," Limousins do well in carcass competitions with their large
rib eyes and high yielding, quality, lean carcass.
Cows are also noted for their calving ease and mothering
ability. Limousins were introduced into Canada from France in late 1968.
Figure 6.
A Limousin bull.
Maine-Anjou
The Maine-Anjou is one of the largest breeds of cattle in France. They
were developed in Brittany when stock that existed in the area before
1850 were crossed with imported Shorthorns to produce a superior animal.
The breed is large, horned, and is dark red, usually with a white underline
and often with small white patches on the body. The appeal of this breed
to cattle producers is their high growth rate, milking ability and good
disposition. Lean carcass quality and high cutability also put them in
demand.
The breed was first imported into Canada in 1968.
Figure 7.
A Maine-Anjou bull.
Shorthorn
The Shorthorn originated in the counties of Durham, Northumberland and
York, England. First importations into Canada took place in 1825. The
Shorthorn has been called the Foundation breed since it has been used
in the development of 30 or more exotic breeds throughout the world.
Shorthorns may be red, white, roan or any combination of
red and white. Cattle are either horned or polled. The breed acquired
a reputation for hardiness, mothering ability, and good temperament. The
major development of the breed has been for beef production, although
dual- purpose herds for milk production are being maintained.
Figure 8.
A Shorthorn bull.
Simmental
The Simmental originated in Switzerland during the Middle Ages. Although
developed as a triple purpose meat/draft/milk animal, they are now considered
a dual purpose milk and meat producer. Simmentals range in colour from
light tan to dark red with white markings on the head, behind the shoulders,
belly, legs and flank. They can be horned or polled.
Simmentals are noted for their muscling, high growth rate
and high milk production. Simmental cows usually wean heavy calves due
to their high milk production and the breed’s high growth potential.
First imports into North America were in 1967.
Figure 9.
A Simmental bull.
Other Breeds Of Beef Cattle In Ontario
There is limited availability of purebred seed stock from the breeds
listed in this section due to the small number of breeders and purebred
stock in Ontario. Several of the breeds are used in crossbreeding programs
for specific traits. The double-muscled breeds are often bred to the low
end of dairy herds to increase meat yield and marketability of veal calves.
Breeds known for their calving ease can be used on heifers, and include
Salers, Murray Grey and Galloway. If considering one of the following
breeds it is important to understand where they fit in the Ontario market,
what market opportunities are available and whether or not seed stock
can be located and purchased.
Belgian Blue
Belgian Blues are the third largest and perhaps fastest growing beef
breed in Great Britain. First introduced to Canada in 1976, it is one
of the highest yielding beef breeds. The breed’s attributes include
double-muscling, fine bones and quiet temperament. Dairy producers are
making use of Belgian Blue semen to raise beef-type calves from the bottom
end of their dairy herds.
Chianina
The Chianina breed of cattle is of ancient origin, going back to the
Roman era when they were used as draft animals. These cattle derive their
name from the Chiana Valley in Italy. It is one of the largest breeds
of cattle in the world with weights up to 4,000 lbs. The animals are tall,
long-legged, long bodied and heavy. Mature bulls are 6 feet tall and are
higher at the back. They have white hair and black skin, and adapt well
to hot climates.
Chianina are noted for rapid growth rate, leanness, high dressing percent
and calving ease. First importation into Canada occurred in 1971.
Galloway
Galloway is an older breed, developed in southwestern Scotland. They
have not experienced the extreme breeding for type that other breeds have.
They were originally imported from Britain into Canada in 1861.
Three separate breeds of Galloway exist; Galloways, Belted Galloways
and White Galloways. They are registered in the same herd book but in
3 separate sections. Three colours are registered: black, dun and red.
All Galloways are polled and are noted for their hardiness, maternal traits,
calving ease and foraging ability. Their double hair coat allows them
to thrive year round in the harshest climates, requiring minimal shelter.
Highland
Highland cattle originated in the Highlands and west coastal area of
Scotland. They were first imported into Canada in the 1880’s. The
breed is horned and can be black, brindle red, yellow, white or dun in
colour.
The breed will survive and reproduce under extreme climatic and poor
grazing conditions. It is known for its browsing ability. The double coat
consisting of a downy undercoat and long outer coat that can reach 13
inches is well oiled to shed rain and snow. They are slow maturing and
noted for longevity.
Murray Grey
The Murray Grey cattle originated in Australia and were introduced into
Canada in 1969. The breed resulted from the chance mating in 1905 of a
light roan, nearly white Shorthorn cow to a purebred black Angus bull,
producing a calf that was silver grey in colour. The same cow produced
12 calves, all grey, by various Angus bulls. From 8 females of these naturally
polled grey calves the colour remained dominant in their progeny although
Angus bulls were used exclusively.
The breed has a reputation for calving ease, mothering ability, hardiness
and a docile temperament. They are easy keepers, can finish on grass and
have a high carcass cutability.
Parthenais
The Parthenais breed existed in Western Europe for hundreds of years
with the official French herdbook being established in 1893. The Canadian
herdbook was established in 1993 following the first importations of embryos
and semen in 1991. Parthenais are docile, reddish buckskin cattle with
black pigmentation. They are highly productive, fertile producers known
for their high cutability and heavily-muscled carcass.
Piedmontese
The Piedmontese is considered a double-muscled breed, which is native
to only a small section of northwest Italy in the Alps. Importations into
Canada were delayed because the national breed association in Italy refused
to sell breeding stock until 1980.
Piedmontese are fawn in colour, gradually turning white with black skin
pigmentation. The breed is considered to be fully double-muscled, with
none of the difficulties traditionally associated with this characteristic,
and are noted for their quality, lean carcass, high cutability and calving
ease.
Pinzgauer
The Pinzgauer belongs to a group of European cattle breeds that are
indigenous to the Alpine regions of Austria. They are considered a dual-purpose
breed. The first Pinzgauers arrived into Canada in the early 1970’s.
The hair colour of the Pinzgauer cattle is chestnut brown having a range
of light to dark brown with a clearly defined white stripe of varying
width along the back and loins. The breed is of medium size, horned, with
a gentle temperament. Pinzgauer are known for their longevity, fertility
and mothering ability.
Red Poll
Red Polls existed as a prehistoric breed in Europe. The Danes introduced
them into England. Two strains, the Norfolk and Suffolk, were crossed
in 1808 to combine fleshing qualities and milking qualities, respectively.
This was the origin of the Red Poll breed that was introduced into Canada
in the early 1880’s.
The breed is red in colour, small to medium in size and polled.
Salers
This breed was developed in south-central France in the rough mountain
region of Salers. The cattle are a solid, deep cherry red, varying somewhat
in intensity and horned. A small number are black and polled animals are
rare. Salers were first brought into Canada in 1972.
Salers were originally bred for milk, meat and draft purposes. The breed
now is primarily raised for meat production. They are known for their
maternal qualities of easy calving and milk production and their ability
to forage and tolerate extremes in climate.
South Devon
The South Devon breed was developed in the southern part of Devonshire,
England. Originally a draft type these cattle were selected for both milk
production and fleshing quality during the 19th century.
South Devon’s are the largest of the English and Scottish breeds.
These cattle are a solid bright yellowish red, varying slightly in shade
and often having a somewhat mottled appearance. The cattle are horned
and noted for hardiness, good milk yield and their lean carcass quality.
South Devon cattle were introduced into Canada in 1969 direct from England.
Tarentaise
The Tarentaise is one of the old breeds indigenous to the Alpine regions
of southeastern France. It is a hardy, well-adapted mountain type that
has survived to the present without any particular infusion of other breeds.
Tarentaise are a moderate-sized animal, early maturing and usually reddish
tan in colour, with dark pigmented skin. The breed is horned and had been
primarily selected for milk production, although they have been selected
for beef characteristics since their importation into Canada in 1972.
Welsh Black
The Welsh Black are descendants of cattle raised and domesticated in
the rugged Welsh mountains of ancient Britain before the Roman Conquest
in 55 B.C.
Welsh Black cattle are medium in size, horned, black in colour and have
thick soft and fairly long hair that is shaggy in winter. They are known
as a maternal breed with gentleness, hardiness, milking ability and foraging
ability.
The first Welsh Black were purchased in the U.S. in 1968 and the first
direct importation from Wales was in 1971.
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