simmental
Simme Valley, Switzerland
HISTORY
The Simmental is among the oldest and most widely distributed of all breeds of cattle in the world. early records indicate these cattle were a cross between large German cattle and a smaller breed Indigenous to switzerland.
DESCRIPTION
- colors vary(red & white) distribution of color may be spotted or speckled, most of body is solid
- head is often white with white band over shoulder
- belly,feet, and tail are usually white in color
- majority have pigments around their eyes
- large frame with long, wide and deep body.( muscular )
- bulls typically weigh 2200 to 2800 pounds at maturity
- cows 1200 to 1600 pounds
- American Simmentals are coloured differently being predominantly black or red (BELOW)
CHARACTERISTICS
- High, long term fertility
- Longevity
- Calving ease
- Excellent mothering ability
- Good grazing ability (geographical and climatic conditions)
- Early maturity
- Good growth rates
- Easy to handle
- docile
FACTS
- The name is given specifically to the breed in Switzerland(simme valley) , while in Germany and Austria it is known as Fleckvieh, and in France as Pie Rouge.
- there are believed to be between 40 & 60 million simmental cattle world wide.
- since switzerland this breed has spreaded to all six continents.
- selection for this breed was initially for three features-milk, meat, and as draft animals. (working animal to carry out task)
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