Simmental cattle breeds:



History

The Middle Ages are when the Simmental cattle breed first appeared. Simmental cattle are believed to have originated from a mix between huge German cattle and a lesser breed that was native to Switzerland, according to early records. The Simme Valley, which is located in Switzerland's Berner Oberland, is where the cattle were first reared, hence the name Simmental.


Technically, several European breeds fall under the Simmental label. 

In Switzerland, the breed is given a unique name, but it goes by Fleckvieh in Germany and Austria and Pie Rouge in France. Abondance, Montbeliard, and Pie Rouge de l'Est are the three distinct herd book registrations that make up the Pie Rouge.

The breed originated in Switzerland and has now colonized all six continents. Simmental cattle are thought to number between 40 and 60 million in total, with more than half in Europe. Up until the late 1960s, the expansion was gradual and global. Records indicate that as early as the 1400s, a few animals were exported to Italy. Simmental cattle were dispersed throughout the majority of Eastern Europe, the Balkans, and Russia in the 19th century until finally making it to South Africa in 1895. Simmental cattle were initially brought into the Western Hemisphere by Guatemala in 1897, followed by Brazil in 1918 and Argentina in 1922. They were also sent to the Republic of China in 1976.


Characteristics.

On a white background, Simmental color ranges from gold to red with white and may be uniformly dispersed or distinct in patches. White covers the head and shoulders frequently, as shown in the pictures above. The majority of people have pigment around their eyes, which helps to lessen eye problems brought on by intense sunshine.


American Simmentals have distinctive coloring, being either black or red, as seen in the example photographs below. The paler hues are known as Fleckvieh.

Simmental can be horned or polled, if horned horns are up turned, another distinguishing feature is that they have a heavy dewlap. They have a large frame with good muscling with cows at approximately 135-150cm tall and the bulls at 150-160cm. Their weight can vary on the use of their use but cows can weigh around 700-900kgs and bulls 1300kgs.

Generations of selective breeding, with the objective of maximizing milk and beef production at minimum cost, have created a balanced hereditary proponent that is highly adaptable, heavily muscled, fine lined, and well conformed. Docility and good mothering traits are other characteristics of the breed.

The breed adapts easily to the most varied conditions from rural small-holder to large extensive ranching operations.

Simmentals are bred all over the world for their high beef yields. In breeding however it allows variations in emphasis from mothering ability to beefing qualities. The heavy muscling, length and overall size and weight of the animal are combined to produce a well fleshed carcass of solid red meat with a minimum of waste fat.

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.

Statistics.

High, long term fertility

Longevity

Calving ease

Short intervals between calving

Excellent mothering ability

Good grazing ability

Early maturity

Good growth rates

Easy to handle

Feed conversion and efficiency

Uniformity in type & colour

Comparative

Body measurements of crossbred calves sired by Simmental bulls divergently selected for progeny first-calf calving ease in relation to birth weight - 1991, PDF format 930K

Distinctive features

The popular and adaptable Simmental breed of cattle is recognized for its unique characteristics. Some of the distinguishing qualities of Simmental cattle include the following:


Simmental cattle are usually a distinguishing color in their coat. They frequently have a dark red or mahogany body and a white face. Simmental cattle can also be black and others may have other color variants.


Simmental cattle are known for their robust frames and muscular builds. They are in high demand for the production of beef because they have a strong, well-developed body with outstanding muscular conformation.

Size: Simmental cattle are one of the bigger breeds of cattle. With bulls reaching between 2,200 and 3,500 pounds (1000 to 1600 kg) and cows weighing between 1,200 and 2,000 pounds (550 to 900 kg), they have a strong and powerful build.


Simmental cattle were initially developed as dual-purpose animals, which means they were produced both for milk and meat. Modern breeding has concentrated mostly on beef production, even if they are still utilized to produce meat.


Simmental cows are noted for their capacity to provide good amounts of milk, despite the fact that the focus has turned to beef production. This milk can be used for dairy production and calf rearing, depending on the situation.

Simmental cattle are quite adaptive and can live in a wide range of climatic conditions and settings. From their original home in the Swiss Alps to places like North America, Europe, and beyond, they are raised all over the world.

Their amiable and generally docile disposition makes them easier to handle and manage, especially in commercial beef farms.

Simmental cattle are frequently lauded for their simplicity in giving birth. This makes them appealing to many cattle farmers because it's crucial for the health of the cow and the calf's survival.

Simmental cattle are often employed in crossbreeding schemes, according to research. Their genetics can enhance growth rates, meat quality, and overall herd performance when bred with other breeds.

High Meat Quality: Simmental cattle provide beef that is prized for its tenderness, marbling, and general excellence. Simmental genetics are therefore very sought-after in the meat sector.

In conclusion, Simmental cattle stand out for their remarkable look, strong build, versatility, and history of serving multiple purposes. They are recognized for their contribution to the cattle business and are renowned for providing meat of the highest caliber while yet being calm and submissive. Simmental cattle are favored by cattle breeders and ranchers all over the world because of these qualities.


Feeding and caring

Considerations for feeding and caring for Simmental cattle include their size, dietary needs, and the types of feed they require. Here are some recommendations for taking good care of Simmental cattle:

1. Dimension and Area:

Simmental cattle are a larger breed, so they require adequate space in their housing and grazing areas to move comfortably. The area needed will depend on the amount of cattle and municipal rules, but it's vital to minimize overcrowding.

2. Dietary:

As with all cattle, Simmental cattle need a diet that is well-balanced and includes vitamins, minerals, fiber, carbs, and proteins. A cattle nutritionist can assist in creating the ideal diet for your particular herd and objectives.

Forage and pasture: Simmental cattle do well to graze, and having access to good pasture is good for their diet. To avoid overgrazing, make sure pastures are well-maintained and cycled.

Hay is a useful way to augment their nutrition throughout the winter or when pasture quality is poor. Age, weight, and environmental conditions, among other things, will all affect how much hay is needed.

Commercial feeds: You may need to supply commercial feeds or concentrates depending on your objectives (beef production, dairy production, or both). These might include foods like soybean meal, grains like corn, and mineral supplements. For specific suggestions, speak with a nutritionist.

3. Water:

Ensure that there is always access to fresh, clean water. Water is necessary for healthy digestion, overall wellbeing, and, if applicable, milk production.

4. Medical Care

Schedule routine veterinary checkups and immunizations to prevent and treat diseases. Although Simmental cattle are often resilient, they can nevertheless be vulnerable to a number of health problems.

Implement a parasite control strategy to deal with both internal and external parasites. For advice on the right products and when to use them, talk to your veterinarian.

To avoid problems with lameness, regularly check and trim the hooves of your animals.

5. Protection

Ensure protection from harsh weather, such as the heat and cold. Simmental cattle can adapt to various climates, but they must be shielded from the elements if they are to live in good health.

6. Handling and Conduct

Although Simmental cattle normally have a peaceful disposition, it is still crucial to use suitable handling practices to reduce stress and guarantee the safety of both the cattle and the workers.

7. Watching:

Keep an eye on your Simmental cattle's overall health, weight, and body condition on a regular basis. As a result, you can modify their diet and care as necessary.

8. Reproduction and breeding:

If you breed, pay special attention to estrus cycles and make sure that the animals are properly mated. For advice on managing breeding, speak with a veterinarian or reproductive specialist.

9. Keeping Records:

Keep thorough records of your feeding, medical, and breeding operations. Effective herd management depends on maintaining accurate records.
It's important to keep in mind that the precise feeding and care needs for Simmental cattle can change based on age, sex, reproductive status, and your planned purpose (beef production, dairy, or both). Consulting with local veterinary clinics, dietitians, and agricultural extension organizations might yield helpful advice catered to your unique situation.