By the British Simmental Cattle Society

As many readers will already know the Simmental's attributes abound, and it’s fascinating to look at what the breed has to offer.

The Simmental breeding programmes in the UK have concentrated on the terminal sire’s breeding qualities. Nevertheless, the dam’s ability to produce ample milk has been maintained.

As the number o suckler cows increases, ensuring a f beef good milk supply is crucial of course and not all beef breeds can guarantee this.

Another attribute is that daily weight gains for cross-bred calves from birth to weaning show results consistently above average in the suckled beef sector.

It is also worth mentioning that the docile manner shown by Simmental sucklers suits both calf and handler. Progeny can feed with minimum disturbance. Routine operations like foot trimming, feeding and changing grazing areas are stress free with these easily managed cattle.

Being very fertile, they have an excellent calving index, and note that Simmental sucklers will fit into most farm’s management systems.

Excellent foragers and grazers, they have a calving pattern that can be – adapted to suit grazing patterns and that can take advantage of the cheapest forage on the farm.

Calves fit into a wide range of rearing and finishing systems: bull beef, steer systems for 15 to 24 months, heifer systems from 14 to 24 months or heifer replacements.

In conclusion, the Simmental is possibly the most versatile of all beef breeds.

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