The Angus cattle are a commonly used beef cattle breed of Europe and Australasia. It is also known as Aberdeen Angus in most part of the world where they are available.
They were developed in the early part of the 19th century. Angus cattle were developed from the cattle native to the counties of Aberdeenshire and Angus in Scotland.
As with other cattle breeds and sheep breeds in Britain, establishment followed improvements in husbandry and transport.
Currently there are three distinct and well-defined breeds of polled cattle in the United Kingdom. These three breeds are Angus, the Galloway and the red polled Norfolk and Suffolk breed.
These animals are naturally polled and solid red or black in color. Native color of this breed is black, but more recently red colors have emerged.
In the United States, black and red Angus cattle are regarded as two separate breeds. But in the United Kingdom, these two breeds are registered in the same herd book.
Today, the breed is available and raised in many countries throughout the world. Read more information about this cattle breed below.
Angus Cattle Full Information
Angus cattle are medium to large animals with either black or red color. The udder of the cows may be white. They are naturally polled and have a large muscle content.
Average body weight of the bulls is around 850 kg. And the cows on average weight about 550 kg. [1]
Physical Appearance
Angus cattle are medium-sized animals that typically weigh between 1,000 to 2,000 pounds. They have a smooth, sleek coat that is usually black, but can also be red or polled (hornless).
Their ears are small and point forward, and their eyes are large and dark. The breed has a broad and deep body, with muscular hindquarters and strong legs. Angus cattle are also known for their compact frame, which makes them easy to handle in tight spaces.
Temperament
One of the most desirable characteristics of Angus cattle is their docile temperament. They are calm, gentle, and easy to handle, which makes them ideal for first-time cattle farmers.
This trait also translates to a lower stress environment when handling or moving the cattle, reducing the likelihood of injury to both the animals and handlers.
Meat Quality
Angus cattle are renowned for their high-quality meat. The breed is known for its exceptional marbling, which gives the meat a tender texture and rich flavor.
Marbling refers to the intramuscular fat that is deposited within the muscle tissue. This fat helps to keep the meat moist during cooking and adds flavor. The higher the marbling score, the more flavorful and tender the meat will be.
Angus cattle are also known for their consistency in meat quality. This consistency is due to the fact that the breed has been selectively bred for generations for specific meat characteristics. The result is a predictable product that consumers can rely on for consistent quality and taste.
Adaptability
Angus cattle are adaptable to a wide range of environments and climates. They can thrive in both hot and cold climates, as well as in high altitudes.
This adaptability has made the breed popular in many different countries around the world.
Reproductive Efficiency
Another desirable trait of Angus cattle is their reproductive efficiency. Females reach puberty at an early age and have a long reproductive life.
They also have a high conception rate, which means they are more likely to become pregnant when bred. This makes them ideal for breeding programs that aim to improve herd genetics.
Uses
The Angus cattle are mainly used for beef production. They are noted for their superior meat quality.
Special Notes
Angus cattle are very hardy because of their native environment. They can survive the Scottish winter, which are typically harsh with snowfall and storms. The breed grows very fast as compared to many other cattle breeds.
They usually mature fast and have a high carcass yield with nicely marbled meat. They are also widely used for crossbreeding for improving carcass quality and milking abilities. The cows are good mothers.
These animals are usually of very good behavior and they have relatively calm temperament. Both bulls and cows are relatively very easy to care. Review full breed profile of this breed in the following table.
| Breed Name | Angus |
| Other Name | Aberdeen Angus |
| Breed Purpose | Meat |
| Special Notes | Very hardy and strong, well adapted to cold climates |
| Breed Size | Medium to large |
| Bulls | Around 850 kg |
| Cows | Around 550 kg |
| Climate Tolerance | All Climates |
| Coat Color | Black or Red |
| Horned | No |
| Milk Yield | Poor |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country/Place of Origin | Scotland |
Top Angus Cattle Interesting Facts
Angus cattle are one of the most popular beef breeds in the world. They are known for their exceptional meat quality, docile temperament, and adaptability. Here are some interesting facts about Angus cattle that every farmer and rancher should know.
- Angus cattle originated in Scotland in the early 19th century. The breed was developed from local cattle by a man named Hugh Watson.
- The first Angus bulls were imported to the United States in 1873.
- Angus cattle were originally bred for their hardiness, adaptability, and meat quality.
- Angus cattle are medium-sized animals that typically weigh between 1,000 to 2,000 pounds.
- The breed has a broad and deep body, with muscular hindquarters and strong legs.
- Angus cattle have a smooth, sleek coat that is usually black, but can also be red or polled (hornless).
- The breed is known for its high-quality meat, which is tender, flavorful, and marbled.
- Angus cattle are also known for their consistency in meat quality.
- The breed is adaptable to a wide range of environments and climates, including hot and cold climates as well as high altitudes.
- Angus cattle have a docile temperament and are easy to handle, which makes them ideal for first-time cattle farmers.
- The breed is highly reproductive, with females reaching puberty at an early age and having a long reproductive life.
- Angus cattle have a high conception rate, which means they are more likely to become pregnant when bred.
- Angus cattle are excellent mothers and have a strong maternal instinct.
- The breed is known for its calving ease, which means that calves are typically born without complications.
- Angus cattle are popular for crossbreeding with other breeds to produce high-quality meat.
- The breed is also used in breeding programs to improve herd genetics.
- Angus cattle are raised for both beef and dairy production.
- The American Angus Association was founded in 1883 and is the largest beef breed registry association in the world.
- Angus cattle are popular around the world, with the United States, Canada, and Australia being the top three countries for Angus production.
- Angus cattle are often featured in livestock shows and exhibitions.
- The most expensive Angus bull ever sold was a bull named “Tex” who sold for $800,000 in 2017.
- Angus cattle have been featured in advertising campaigns for fast food chains such as McDonald’s.
- The popularity of Angus beef has led to an increase in demand for certified Angus beef products, which must meet strict quality standards set by the American Angus Association.
Best Tips for Raising Angus Cattle
Raising Angus cattle can be a rewarding and profitable endeavor for farmers and ranchers. However, it requires careful planning and attention to detail to ensure success.
Here we are trying to list some best tips for raising Angus cattle that will help you achieve your breeding and production goals.
- Plan your breeding program carefully. Determine your breeding goals and select bulls and cows accordingly.
- Choose high-quality genetics. Look for animals with good conformation, structure, and temperament.
- Use artificial insemination (AI) to introduce superior genetics into your herd.
- Implement a strict culling policy. Remove animals that do not meet your breeding goals or are not productive.
- Provide a balanced ration that meets the nutritional needs of your cattle. Consult with a nutritionist if necessary.
- Ensure adequate pasture or forage availability. Overstocking can lead to overgrazing and poor animal performance.
- Implement a vaccination program to protect against common diseases such as respiratory infections and clostridial diseases.
- Develop a herd health plan that includes regular check-ups, deworming, and treatment for parasites.
- Keep records of all breeding, calving, and health events. This will help you make informed decisions and track progress over time.
- Practice good biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of disease. Limit visitors to your farm and disinfect equipment regularly.
- Provide clean, dry bedding for your cattle. This will improve their comfort and reduce the risk of disease.
- Ensure access to clean water at all times. Cattle require plenty of fresh water, especially during hot weather.
- Implement a fly control program to reduce stress on your cattle and prevent the spread of disease.
- Monitor body condition score (BCS) regularly. This will help you adjust your feeding program as necessary.
- Provide shade and shelter for your cattle to protect them from extreme weather conditions.
- Implement a rotational grazing system to improve pasture utilization and reduce soil erosion.
- Use electronic identification (EID) tags to track individual animals and collect data.
- Work with a veterinarian or extension agent to diagnose and treat any health issues that arise.
- Implement a breeding soundness examination (BSE) for bulls before the breeding season.
- Monitor reproductive performance regularly, including conception rates and calving intervals.
- Avoid overhandling or stressing your cattle. This can lead to reduced performance and illness.
- Consider marketing your Angus cattle through specialty programs such as certified Angus beef (CAB) or natural beef programs.
- Stay up-to-date on industry trends, research, and best practices. Attend conferences and seminars, and read industry publications.
