Performance of Crossbred Beef Cattle in the Gulf Coast Region

Abstract

A study was initiated in 1952 to evaluate the performance of different breeds of beef cattle, and crosses among these breeds, in the Gulf Coast region. An analysis of the results of 5 years of work with respect to weaning weights and slaughter calf grades has yielded considerable information as to the merits of 24 different types of cattle, particularly in the Gulf Coast and similar regions. It has been found that Brangus and Brahman females raise calves that are not only heavier at weaning but also grade higher. The heaviest weaning weights are generally reached with the use of Charolaise, Hereford, and Shorthorn bulls on the Brangus and Brahman cows. Although Charolaise bulls have sired the heaviest calves, the slaughter calf grades of these calves are lowered because of their lack of finish. Although no Charolaise females were used in this study, the Charolaise bulls have demonstrated their ability to cross well with all four breeds of cows used in this study. Crosses among Brahman and other breeds of cattle have shown a considerable advantage over the pure breeds with respect to weaning weights although the advantage is not so marked when slaughter calf grades are considered. These crosses are generally superior when the Brahman breeding is in the females. The data indicate that little or no advantage is to be gained by crossing the English beef breeds under the conditions of this experiment.