Open PRAIRIE: Open Public Research Access Institutional Repository and Information Exchange
Abstract
Cow size, reproductive performance and calf performance to weaning were evaluated for Simmental-Hereford cows (25 to 38% Hereford) mated to Hereford bulls, Simmental-Hereford cows (50% Hereford) mated to Hereford bulls, Simmental-Hereford cows (62-7!5% Hereford) mated to Simmental bulls, Angus-Hereford cows (25.38% Hereford) mated to Hereford bulls, Angus-Hereford cows (50% Hereford) mated to Hereford bulls and Angus-Hereford cows (62-75% Hereford) mated to Angus bulls. Simmental cross cows were heavier and taller and produced heavier calves at b i r t h and weaning than Angus cross cows. Pregnancy rate, calf preweaning survival rate and calf birth date did not vary significantly among breed groups. Preweaning growth was greater for calves from cows of high percentage Simmental cows mated to Hereford bulls than for calves from low percentage Simmental cows mated to Simmental bulls, indicating a strong maternal effect for Simmental on calf growth