Body condition scoring (BCS) is a useful management tool for distinguishing differences in nutritional needs of beef cattle. This system uses a numeric score to estimate body energy reserves in the cow. Research indicates that there is a strong link between the body...
1.10.1 Body structure The neck of a beef animal should be moderately long, an indicator of growth. The loin and rump should be long, wide and level, causing the animal to be long and strong in its top. Extremely short-bodied and short-legged cattle are associated with...
Beef cattle can be recognised by their shape. They are also selected according to those parts that form the most expensive cuts, such as the rump, thighs and loins. The following characteristics are important in a beef animal: Overall Body Shape...
In the production system, the breed or type of beef cattle selection to fit the various agro-ecological regions should also satisfy the following objectives: A production system within the environment to be sustainable over the extended period A product output as...
1.7.1 Red Poll The Red Poll had its origin in England in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The first Red Polls were brought to South Africa in the early 1900’s and proved themselves by adapting exceptionally well to South Africa's agro-ecological conditions. The...