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Angus cattle

Angus cattle, also known as Aberdeen Angus, are a breed of beef cattle originating from the counties of Aberdeen, Banff, Kincardine, and Angus in northeastern Scotland, where they were developed in the late 18th and early 19th centuries through selective breeding of native polled black cattle strains such as the Angus doddies and Buchan humlies.^[1] They are naturally hornless (polled) and characterized by a solid black coat, though a red variant exists, with key traits including hardiness, efficiency on pasture, early maturity, and superior carcass quality due to natural marbling.^[1]^[2] The breed's development is credited to pioneering breeders like Hugh Watson of Keillor and William McCombie of Tillyfour, who focused on improving beef conformation and fertility; foundational animals such as the bull Old Jock (born 1842) and cow Old Granny (born 1824) trace ancestry to most modern Angus herds.^[1] Introduced to the United States in 1873 by George Grant with four bulls imported to Kansas, the breed rapidly expanded, with over 1,200 cattle arriving in the Midwest between 1878 and 1883, leading to the formation of the American Angus Association in 1883 as the largest beef breed registry worldwide.^[1]^[3] Renowned for their economic advantages in beef production, Angus cattle exhibit calving ease from low birth weights, vigorous post-birth growth, strong maternal instincts, high fertility, and short gestation periods, making them adaptable and low-maintenance across diverse environments.^[2] Their docile temperament and black pigment, which protects against conditions like cancer eye and sunburned udders, further enhance their appeal to producers.^[2] The breed's genetic database, maintained by the American Angus Association since 1958, supports selection via expected progeny differences (EPDs) for traits like growth, carcass merit, and fertility, contributing to the global popularity of Certified Angus Beef®, a branded program available in over 40 countries that generates significant market premiums.^[2]^[3]

History

Origins in Scotland

The Angus breed originated in the northeastern counties of Aberdeenshire and Angus (formerly Forfarshire) in Scotland, where native polled cattle had been present since prehistoric times, as evidenced by ancient carvings depicting hornless animals in these regions.^[1] These early cattle were predominantly black and adapted to the local harsh climates, forming the foundational stock for what would become the Angus breed.^[4] In the early 18th century, influences from native polled breeds such as the Black Hornless cattle of Aberdeenshire contributed to the breed's development, with selective breeding efforts beginning around 1750 to improve traits like hardiness and beef quality.^[5] Farmers in these areas focused on naturally hornless (polled) animals, crossbreeding local varieties to enhance maternal qualities and carcass conformation, laying the groundwork for systematic improvement.^[4] A pivotal figure in the 19th century was Hugh Watson, who in 1808 established a foundational herd at Keillor Farm in Angus county, selecting for polled, black-coated cattle with superior beef characteristics from a diverse pool of regional stock.^[1] Watson's methodical approach, starting with six cows and a bull from his father's herd, emphasized traits like fertility and meat yield, significantly advancing the breed's uniformity.^[5] By the 1850s, these efforts led to the initial recognition of Angus as a distinct breed, culminating in the publication of the first herd book in 1862 by the Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland, which formalized pedigrees and standards.^[4] This milestone documented the breed's origins and supported further refinement among Scottish breeders.^[6]

Breed development and societies

The Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society was formed in 1879 in Scotland to regulate and promote the breed through standardized practices and documentation.^[7] The society continued the herd book first published in 1862 by the Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland, evolving it into a comprehensive registry that established breed standards emphasizing polled (hornless) cattle with black coats, ensuring uniformity and traceability of lineage from northeastern Scottish stock.^[8]^[4] Key breeders significantly influenced the society's early standardization efforts. William McCombie, a tenant farmer at Tillyfour in Aberdeenshire from 1824, preserved and improved the breed by selectively breeding for early maturity, hardiness, and superior marbled beef quality, merging Angus and Aberdeen strains into a cohesive type.^[1] Similarly, Sir George Macpherson-Grant, who inherited the Ballindalloch Estate in 1861, refined the breed over nearly 50 years through line breeding, prioritizing the same traits of early maturity, hardiness, and high-quality marbled beef to enhance meat production efficiency.^[9] These efforts, documented in the society's records, elevated the breed's reputation for beef excellence. In the early 20th century, the society advanced breed improvement by introducing performance recording alongside its pedigree system, allowing breeders to track growth and productivity metrics systematically.^[10] The controlled pedigrees in the herd book played a crucial role in preventing inbreeding by enabling breeders to avoid close matings and maintain genetic diversity within registered lines.^[1] Parallel developments occurred internationally, with the American Aberdeen-Angus Breeders' Association founded in 1883 in Chicago to promote the breed in the United States, focusing on similar registry and improvement principles.^[4]

Global introduction and spread

The introduction of Angus cattle to the United States began in 1873 when George Grant, a Scottish settler, imported four bulls from Scotland to his ranch near Victoria, Kansas, as part of an effort to establish a British farming colony and improve local beef production through crosses with Texas Longhorn cows.^[4] These initial animals demonstrated superior hardiness and beef quality, leading to rapid adoption by American ranchers; the offspring's polled, black traits and ability to thrive on prairie grasses sparked interest, culminating in the founding of the American Aberdeen-Angus Breeders' Association in 1883 with 60 charter members.^[4] By the late 19th century, imports surged, with over 1,200 Angus cattle arriving between 1878 and 1883, primarily to the Midwest, fueling explosive growth in the breed's popularity for its efficiency in converting forage to high-quality beef.^[1] Angus cattle reached Australia in 1840, with initial arrivals in Tasmania followed by early imports to the southern mainland.^[11] Further significant shipments in 1861 and 1870 bolstered herds, and by the late 19th century, Angus had become integral to Australia's beef industry due to their foraging efficiency and carcass quality, forming the backbone of export-oriented production.^[11] In Canada, the first recorded importation occurred in 1859, though the initial animals produced no progeny; productive imports began in the 1860s under Professor William Brown at the Ontario Experimental Farm, with the first Canadian-born Angus calf arriving in 1877, marking the breed's establishment across varied climates from eastern prairies to western coasts.^[12] The Canadian Aberdeen-Angus Association, formed in 1906, supported steady expansion, positioning Angus as a staple for commercial beef operations valued for maternal traits and marbling.^[12] The breed's dissemination extended to South America in the late 19th century, notably Argentina in 1879 when landowner Don Carlos Guerrero imported the first Angus animals to enhance local Creole herds for premium beef production on the Pampas.^[13] By the 1920s, Angus crosses had proliferated across the region, contributing to Argentina's emergence as a global beef leader through improved meat yield and adaptability to subtropical conditions.^[14] In Europe, beyond their Scottish origins, Angus populations grew modestly in the early 20th century but experienced a post-World War II boom driven by reconstruction-era demand for efficient, high-quality beef; imports to countries like Ireland and continental nations increased, aided by the breed's resilience in cooler, wetter environments.^[15] This era saw the establishment of international breed networks, including collaborative efforts in the 1940s by associations like the American Angus Association to standardize pedigrees and promote exports, facilitating Angus integration into crossbreeding programs worldwide for hybrid vigor in growth and meat traits.^[4]

Physical characteristics

Body conformation and size

Angus cattle exhibit a compact, rectangular body frame that supports efficient weight gain and foraging efficiency. Mature bulls typically average 1,800–2,200 pounds (816–998 kg), while cows range from 1,300–1,700 pounds (590–771 kg), reflecting selection for moderate size that balances productivity with resource use.^[16]^[17] This build features a muscular structure with deep, broad forequarters, a straight topline, and well-set legs, contributing to structural soundness and high carcass yield.^[1]^[18] The head of Angus cattle is characterized by a short neck, wide muzzle, and moderate dewlap, enhancing ease of handling and overall functionality as beef producers. These traits, combined with a balanced, symmetrical conformation, promote good disposition and adaptability in various environments.^[1] In terms of growth, Angus calves are born weighing 70–90 pounds (32–41 kg), allowing for relatively easy calving due to the breed's polled nature and moderate pelvic dimensions. They achieve market weights of approximately 1,200 pounds (544 kg) by 12–18 months, demonstrating rapid yet efficient postweaning gains suitable for beef production systems.^[19]^[19]

Coat, color, and polled trait

Angus cattle are characterized by a smooth, short hair coat that lies close to the skin, providing effective weather resistance and adaptability to various climates. In the traditional Black Angus variety, the coat is solid black, while the Red Angus variant features a similar smooth, short texture but in a mahogany-red or reddish-brown hue. This coat structure aids in thermoregulation, with the short hair facilitating heat dissipation in warmer conditions despite the dark coloration absorbing solar radiation.^[1]^[20]^[21] A defining feature of the breed is its polled trait, where cattle are naturally hornless due to the dominant Pc allele at the polled locus on bovine chromosome 1, characterized by a 212-base pair duplication that replaces a 10-base pair sequence, disrupting horn development. Nearly all purebred Angus cattle exhibit this trait, as it is a strict breed standard enforced by registration societies, with scurred or horned animals typically ineligible for full purebred status. The polled condition reduces injury risks during handling and among herd mates, contributing to overall management efficiency.^[22]^[23] The skin of Angus cattle is fully black-pigmented, including the muzzle, eyelids, udder, and teats, offering robust protection against ultraviolet radiation-induced damage such as sunburn and squamous cell carcinoma, particularly in lightly haired areas. This eumelanin-based pigmentation not only shields sensitive tissues but also correlates with the breed's black coat in the dominant variety, enhancing resilience in sunny environments. Red Angus share this pigmented skin despite their coat color, maintaining similar protective benefits.^[24]^[20] Angus cattle undergo seasonal shedding of their winter coat, typically transitioning to a sleeker summer profile by spring, which supports thermal comfort without requiring intensive grooming due to the inherently short hair length. Breeders may occasionally use basic tools like shedding combs for exhibition preparation, but routine maintenance is minimal compared to longer-haired breeds. Selection for efficient shedding has been integrated into modern breeding programs to further optimize heat tolerance.^[25]^[26]

Varieties

Black Angus

The Black Angus, officially known as the Aberdeen Angus, represents the foundational variety of the Angus breed, originating from polled black cattle in northeastern Scotland. This variety is characterized by its solid black coat color, with strict standards prohibiting white markings on the skin above the underline, in front of the navel, or on the legs, feet, or tail; minor birthmarks or white hairs on black skin are permissible, but any red pigmentation renders an animal ineligible for registration. These color requirements ensure uniformity and are enforced in show rings and breed registries to maintain the breed's distinctive appearance.^[27] Black Angus constitutes over 90% of all registered Angus cattle worldwide, reflecting its dominance in both purebred registries and commercial beef production. The American Angus Association, the primary registry for this variety, recorded more than 300,000 registrations in fiscal year 2024 alone, far outpacing the separate Red Angus registry's 66,406 registrations in 2023. In commercial herds, Black Angus holds even higher prevalence due to strong market preferences for black-hided cattle, which command premiums in auctions and processing—approximately 69% of U.S. beef cattle were black-hided as of 2022, influenced by Angus genetics.^[28]^[29]^[30]^[31] This preference stems from consumer and industry associations of the black hide with superior beef quality and branding programs like Certified Angus Beef.^[27]^[1] Historically, the Aberdeen Angus registry maintained exclusivity to black-coated animals, excluding reds and other variants since its U.S. establishment in 1883; this separation intensified in 1917 when red registrations were barred outright. It was not until the 1950s that red variants gained their own dedicated registry, with the Red Angus Association of America forming in 1954 to breed and register the recessive red color separately from black herds. Today, registration purity for Black Angus requires genetic testing to confirm homozygous black status and absence of deleterious traits, ensuring the variety's integrity amid crossbreeding pressures in commercial operations.^[4]^[32]^[27]

Red Angus

Red Angus cattle emerged as a distinct variety through the recessive red coat color mutation present in early 20th-century black Angus herds in the United States, where the red allele, inherited from ancestral Scottish stock, occasionally surfaced despite selective breeding for black hides.^[33]^[34] This genetic variation led to the formal recognition of Red Angus as a separate line, with seven breeders founding the Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) in 1954 in Sheridan, Wyoming, to establish the industry's first performance-based registry focused on efficiency and total herd reporting.^[32]^[34] The breed features a solid red coat ranging in shades from deep cherry red to lighter strawberry tones, complemented by black skin pigmentation that provides protection against sun damage, similar to Black Angus.^[34] Like their black counterparts, Red Angus are naturally polled, sharing the same body conformation of moderate frame size, deep bodies, and straight toplines that support efficient beef production.^[34] The red coat is often associated with improved heat tolerance in warmer climates, as lighter colors absorb less solar radiation compared to black, reducing physiological stress during high temperatures.^[35] The RAAA has maintained an independent registry since its inception, emphasizing genetic merit over hide color, with active female registrations surpassing 100,000 by 2020, reflecting robust growth in the breed's population.^[36] Red Angus are particularly valued in crossbreeding programs for introducing hybrid vigor, fertility, and carcass quality without concerns over color dilution in purebred lines, as the recessive red trait ensures consistent red offspring when bred true.^[37] In certain markets, red-hided calves command preferences due to their visibility in branding programs like Feeder Calf Certification, which highlight performance over traditional black hide biases.^[38] Historically, the red coat may have offered camouflage advantages against predators in varied terrains, though modern emphasis lies on productivity traits.^[34]

Genetics and breeding

Genetic traits and selection

Angus cattle are characterized by the dominant polled gene at the Celtic polled (Pc) locus on chromosome 1, which results in hornlessness as a fixed trait across the breed.^[39] This autosomal dominant mutation ensures that nearly all individuals are homozygous for the polled allele, eliminating the need for dehorning and contributing to the breed's suitability for intensive management systems.^[40] The polled phenotype has been a foundational selection criterion since the breed's early development in Scotland, where hornless animals were preferentially bred to enhance safety and ease of handling.^[41] Historical selection pressures emphasized calving ease, leading to low average birth weights of approximately 80 pounds (36 kg) in calves, which minimizes dystocia particularly in heifers.^[42] This trait was prioritized in the 19th and early 20th centuries to improve reproductive efficiency, alongside high fertility rates exceeding 90% conception in mature cows and heifers under optimal conditions.^[43] These reproductive attributes stem from targeted breeding for moderate frame size and early maturity, reducing the interval between calvings and supporting annual production cycles.^[44] Genetic diversity in foundational Angus herds was preserved through outcrossing with native Scottish black cattle populations during the breed's formation in the 18th and 19th centuries, preventing early bottlenecks and promoting robustness.^[45] In contemporary populations, inbreeding coefficients are monitored via pedigree analysis to mitigate potential declines in vigor, with tools developed by breed associations to project coefficients for prospective matings and maintain effective population sizes above critical thresholds.^[46] Marbling, or intramuscular fat deposition, has been a key economic trait in Angus selection, with quantitative trait loci (QTLs) influencing this characteristic first identified in the 1990s through genomic scans in crossbred populations including Angus sires.^[47] Notable QTLs on chromosomes such as 9 and 14 were linked to variations in marbling scores, enabling marker-assisted selection to enhance beef quality without compromising growth.^[48] These discoveries built on earlier physiological studies and have since informed breeding programs focused on balancing carcass composition.^[49]

Modern breeding practices

Modern breeding practices in Angus cattle emphasize quantitative genetic tools and reproductive technologies to enhance economically important traits while promoting herd sustainability. Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs), introduced by the American Angus Association in the early 1980s, provide predictions of an animal's genetic potential for transmitting traits to offspring, such as weaning weight and marbling score.^[50]^[51] For weaning weight, breeders target EPDs that predict a 50–60 pound (23–27 kg) advantage over breed averages, enabling selection for calves with superior growth rates without excessive mature size.^[52] Similarly, marbling EPDs guide selection for intramuscular fat deposition, with values above +0.40 often prioritized to improve beef quality grades like Choice or Prime.^[53] These metrics support balanced selection strategies that avoid extremes in frame size, ensuring functional cows with moderate mature weights around 1,200–1,400 pounds (544–635 kg).^[54] Genomic selection has revolutionized Angus breeding since 2009, when the American Angus Association first incorporated DNA testing to produce genomically enhanced EPDs (GE-EPDs), allowing earlier and more accurate identification of superior genetics in young animals.^[55] Panels like the AngusGS, launched in 2017 in partnership with Neogen, analyze over 80,000 markers to refine EPD accuracy for traits including feed efficiency, where selections can reduce intake by 10–15% per pound of gain.^[56]^[57] This technology enables breeders to cull or promote juveniles based on genomic predictions, accelerating genetic progress by up to 50% compared to traditional progeny testing.^[58] Reproductive technologies such as artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET) are integral to disseminating elite genetics across global Angus herds, with top sires contributing to thousands of offspring annually.^[59] AI, used in over 70% of registered Angus matings, facilitates access to proven bulls for traits like fertility and docility, while ET multiplies elite females' genetics, producing 5–10 calves per donor per year.^[60] Breeders emphasize balanced EPD profiles in these programs to prevent overemphasis on growth at the expense of reproductive longevity.^[61] In the 2020s, sustainability has become a priority, with the American Angus Association funding research to select for reduced methane emissions and enhanced disease resistance. Methane efficiency EPDs, developed through a 2025 Bezos Earth Fund grant, aim to identify low-emitter genetics to reduce enteric methane emissions without compromising productivity.^[62] Collaborative studies with international partners focus on immune resilience, using phenotyping and genomics to breed for resistance to diseases like bovine respiratory disease, with potential to lower health costs and disease incidence.^[63] These efforts integrate environmental and health traits into EPDs, supporting resilient herds amid climate challenges.^[64]

Uses and management

Beef production and quality

Angus cattle are primarily raised for beef production, where their genetic predisposition for intramuscular fat deposition—known as marbling—distinguishes them in terms of meat quality and palatability. This marbling contributes to a high percentage of Angus carcasses grading USDA Prime or Choice, often exceeding the national average of approximately 84%.^[65] At slaughter, the intramuscular fat content in Angus beef typically averages 4–6%, corresponding to the marbling levels that elevate sensory attributes like juiciness and taste.^[66] Carcass characteristics further underscore the efficiency of Angus in beef production, with dressing percentages commonly ranging from 60–65%, indicating a strong proportion of live weight converted to usable meat after processing.^[67] This yield supports optimal cut yields, particularly in high-value sections, where ribeye areas measure 12–15 square inches (77–97 cm²), balancing muscling and fat for premium steak production without excessive trim loss.^[68] In feedlot environments, Angus cattle exhibit robust growth performance, achieving average daily gains of 3–4 pounds (1.4–1.8 kg) under standard finishing rations, which facilitates efficient market-ready weights within typical timelines.^[69] Their feed efficiency is notable, with conversion ratios around 6:1 (feed intake to weight gain), allowing producers to optimize input costs while maintaining carcass quality.^[70] The Certified Angus Beef® brand, established in 1978 by Angus producers, exemplifies these production strengths through rigorous certification standards that ensure only top-tier beef reaches consumers.^[71] To qualify, carcasses must exhibit at least Modest 00 marbling (equivalent to the upper end of USDA Choice), be from cattle under 30 months of age, and meet criteria for tenderness, lean color, and firmness, thereby guaranteeing consistent premium quality across marketed products.^[72]

Husbandry and health considerations

Angus cattle thrive in pasture-based production systems, where they graze on temperate forages for much of their growth, supplemented by grain finishing in the final 90–120 days to enhance marbling and weight gain.^[73] This approach leverages their adaptability to grazing while allowing for efficient feedlot integration when needed.^[74] These cattle exhibit hardiness in temperate climates, maintaining productivity in environments ranging from -20°F (-29°C) to 90°F (32°C), though shelter and windbreaks are essential during extreme cold or heat to prevent stress and energy loss.^[75]^[76] Health management emphasizes preventive vaccination protocols, including 7- or 8-way clostridial vaccines against diseases like blackleg and tetanus, administered at branding and boosted before weaning, alongside modified-live virus vaccines targeting respiratory pathogens such as infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR), bovine viral diarrhea (BVD), and bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV).^[77]^[78] Reproductive health supports calving ease, with many Angus lines achieving approximately 90% unassisted births in first-calf heifers when selected for high calving ease direct (CED) expected progeny differences (EPDs), reducing dystocia risks and improving dam recovery.^[42] Cows demonstrate strong longevity, remaining productive for 10–12 years under good management, contributing to herd stability and lower replacement costs.^[79] Parasite control relies on integrated strategies like rotational grazing, which limits larval ingestion by allowing pasture rest periods of 21–30 days, minimizing internal nematode burdens without over-reliance on anthelmintics.^[80]^[81] In the 2020s, industry emphasis on animal welfare has promoted low-stress handling techniques, such as Temple Grandin's flight zone principles, to minimize cortisol spikes during transport and processing, thereby reducing the incidence of dark cutting—a condition caused by pre-slaughter stress that elevates muscle pH and darkens meat color.^[82]^[83]

Economic importance

Role in the United States

The American Angus Association registered 300,761 head of Angus cattle in fiscal year 2023, marking the ninth consecutive year of exceeding 300,000 annual registrations.^[84] This breed dominates the U.S. beef cattle population, with approximately 70-80% of the cowherd possessing some Angus ancestry, reflecting its widespread use in both purebred and crossbred operations.^[85] Including crosses, the total Angus-influenced population surpasses 60 million head, based on the breed's share of the overall U.S. cattle inventory of approximately 89.3 million head as of January 1, 2023.^[86] Angus cattle play a central role in seedstock production, where registered animals provide foundational genetics for commercial herds, and in commercial operations that prioritize the breed for its marbling and efficiency traits. The American Angus Association's AngusSource program, launched in 2005 as a USDA Process Verified Initiative, verifies the source, age, and minimum 50% Angus genetics of calves, enhancing market access and premiums for participating producers since its early implementation.^[87] Economically, Angus genetics underpin much of the U.S. beef industry's value, which generated about $112 billion in cash receipts for cattle production in 2024, representing 22% of total agricultural commodities.^[88] Branded programs like Certified Angus Beef drive premium pricing, with producers earning nearly $100 per head above commodity market levels through grid and contract premiums for qualifying carcasses.^[89] In 2023, U.S. beef exports reached $10 billion, supported by the breed's quality attributes that meet international standards.^[90] Recent trends in the U.S. Angus sector include greater integration of technologies like RFID ear tags for animal identification and traceability, mandated by USDA for interstate movement of certain cattle starting November 5, 2024, to improve disease monitoring and supply chain efficiency.^[91] These advancements address 2020s consumer demands for sustainability, such as verified environmental practices and ethical sourcing, further solidifying the breed's position in premium and export markets.

Global distribution and impact

Angus cattle are distributed across more than 60 countries, originating from Scotland but achieving prominence through extensive exports beginning in the 19th century. Significant populations exist in the United States, where the breed dominates beef production with over 300,000 registered cows contributing to more than a billion pounds of beef annually; Canada, a major producer and exporter; Australia, known for its large-scale Angus herds integrated into grass-fed systems; and South America, particularly Argentina (where about 30% of cattle are pure Angus), Uruguay (where Angus and Hereford breeds together comprise about 80% of the national herd, with Angus exceeding 50%), Brazil, and Paraguay. In Africa, notable herds are found in South Africa, while European countries like the United Kingdom maintain foundational populations, and Romania has seen the fastest growth rate in Angus numbers on the continent, with a 126% increase reported recently.^[8]^[92]^[93]^[94]^[95] The global trade in Angus genetics underscores this distribution, with cooperative evaluations enabling cross-border commerce among key associations in the United States, Canada, and Australia, incorporating data on over 260,000 genotypes and enhancing breeding accuracy for traits like carcass quality. This exchange has bolstered Angus adoption in export-oriented industries, particularly in regions with high beef demand relative to local supply, such as Asia and North America. In 2024-2025, exports to Asia continued to grow amid rising demand for premium beef.^[93]^[96] Economically, Angus cattle significantly influence the premium beef sector, driving value through superior marbling and tenderness that command higher market prices. The Certified Angus Beef brand, derived from Angus or Angus-influenced cattle meeting stringent quality standards, achieved global sales of 1.235 billion pounds in fiscal year 2025, marking one of its strongest years and supporting over 5.77 million certified carcasses processed. International sales totaled 179 million pounds across more than 55 countries, with leading markets including Canada, South Korea, and Mexico, where demand for high-quality cuts contributes to robust export revenues—U.S. beef exports alone reached key Asian partners amid global trade dynamics influenced by population growth and consumption preferences. This impact extends to rural economies in producing nations, fostering job creation, genetic improvement, and sustainable production practices that align with evolving consumer trends toward traceable, premium products.^[97]^[98]^[96]

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Angus cattle, also known as Aberdeen-Angus, are a polled breed from northeastern Scotland, with a history of improvement in the 18th century.
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Galloway—Mr. G. J. Walker's description—Standards of excellence of. Aberdeen-Angus cattle drawn up by a committee of the council of the.
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[35]
[PDF] RAAA_Annual Report_2021.indd - Red Angus Association
Number of animals registered per each of the Top 10 states. 1. Montana. 9,416. 2. Nebraska. 6,577. 3. South Dakota 5,486. 4. Texas. 5,233. 5. North Dakota 4,684.
[36]
About Red Angus
“The decision to form an association was based on the feeling among the breeders that there should be a herd book for these animals in order to perpetuate Red ...
[37]
Marketing Options - Red Angus Association
The U.S. feeder cattle market doesn't always distinguish the best Angus calves from generic black or red-hided feeder cattle. Top Dollar Angus is the first ...
[38]
Uncovering Novel Features of the Pc Locus in Horn Development ...
Oct 11, 2022 · The Polled Celtic (Pc) mutation locus is a genetically simple single mutation that is the best choice for breeding polled cattle using gene editing.Missing: PC1 | Show results with:PC1
[39]
Polled vs. Horned | Veterinary Genetics Laboratory - UC Davis
Polledness is a dominant trait: all offspring of a bull with 2 copies of a polled-associated mutation will be polled themselves. ... Phenotype: Naturally polled ...Missing: deletion | Show results with:deletion
[40]
Polled Trait - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
It is found that many cattle breeds such as Angus are naturally horn-free. Polled phenotype is an autosomal dominant trait because of the POLLED genetic locus ...Missing: PC1 | Show results with:PC1
[41]
[PDF] Calving Ease - American Angus Association
what some call a bell- shaped curve (see Fig. 1).
[42]
[PDF] Pregnancy rate and first-service conception rate in Angus heifers
The overall pregnancy rate in Angus heifers was 93%, with a range of 75-95% between herds and 65-100% between sires.
[43]
Health & Husbandry - American Angus Association
Oct 1, 2024 · The overall pregnancy rate is also indicative of overall herd health and production, with a target range of 90% to 95% pregnant within a 65-day ...
[44]
Trends in genetic diversity and the effect of inbreeding in American ...
Jun 16, 2021 · The purpose of this study was to determine changes in genetic diversity as a result of the implementation of genomic selection in Angus cattle.
[45]
Projected Inbreeding Coefficient - American Angus Association
The projected inbreeding calculator will calculate a pedigree based inbreeding coefficient of a prospective offspring between two individuals.
[46]
[PDF] Detection of quantitative trait loci for growth and carcass composition ...
A QTL for marbling was detected between centimorgans 46 and 76 for marbling score on chromo- some 9. Georges et al. (1995) detected a significant QTL for fat ...Missing: 1990s | Show results with:1990s
[47]
Identification of quantitative trait loci for growth and carcass ...
A genomic screening to detect quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting growth, carcass composition and meat quality traits was pursued.Missing: 1990s | Show results with:1990s
[48]
#1 Angus Improving Genetics, Nutrition And Health | STORIES ...
“Ultrasound was a breakthrough in the 1990s because it allowed researchers to measure marbling in live cattle. ... Quantitative Loci Trait (QTL) Database. “The ...
[49]
https://stories.cals.iastate.edu/2013/12/1-angus-improving-genetics-nutrition-and-health
[50]
Using Expected Progeny Differences for Beef Cattle Genetic ...
Dec 14, 2023 · Expected progeny differences are only relevant within the breed so that, for example, Angus EPDs cannot be compared directly with Hereford EPDs.Missing: modern practices<|control11|><|separator|>
[51]
EPD $Value Definitions - American Angus Association
A $Value is an economic selection index allowing for directional change in multiple traits at once pertaining to a specific breeding objective.Missing: characteristics | Show results with:characteristics
[52]
EPDs Explained - CAB Cattle
EPDs are the expected differences in performance and carcass quality of an animal's sons or daughters, compared to a zero base that relates to foundation stock.Missing: modern | Show results with:modern
[53]
[PDF] Balancing multiple traits in a selection program takes planning.
“It took the commercial man and his resistance to buying extreme-frame-size cattle to get the seedstock producer to change. ... what is average in the Angus breed ...
[54]
Digest Paper - Genetic advancements in American angus
In 2009 AGI launched the first genomically enhanced EPD for the breed, an advancement that has continued to grow. The Angus NCE updates new pedigree, ...<|separator|>
[55]
Angus Genetics, Neogen introduce Angus GS genomic profile
Nov 4, 2017 · Angus Genetics, Inc., and Neogen GeneSeek Operations today launched Angus GS™, a new genomic profiler for Angus seedstock cattle.
[56]
Angus GS | Genomics - Neogen
The powerful new genomic selection tool built specifically for Angus cattle in partnership with the American Angus Association.
[57]
Genomic selection in beef cattle creates additional opportunities for ...
The use of genotype information to improve the predictability of Expected Progeny Difference was first implemented in American Angus cattle in 2009 and has now ...Missing: AngusGS Association
[58]
Program Overview - Gardiner Angus Ranch
Gardiner Angus Ranch breeds 1,500 females using AI and embryo transfer, aiming to maximize reproductive efficiency, and has performance records since 1964.
[59]
Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer - Silvey Angus
Artificial Insemination is a vital part of the Angus Breeding program implemented at Silvey Angus Ranch. We only select superior registered Angus sires.
[60]
Valuable traits that Angus breeders should select for in 2023.
Oct 10, 2024 · In the last decade, there has been a general move away from extremes in either direction and a focus on more 'balanced' animals. Current ...
[61]
Angus joins global initiative to improve livestock efficiency
Apr 15, 2025 · – Joining a new global effort to help beef cattle producers breed more efficient livestock, the Angus Foundation – alongside Angus Genetics Inc.
[62]
Methane Efficiency Research Brief - American Angus Association
The project aims to study the influence genetics has on methane emissions, their usefulness for genetic selection, and its relationship to other important ...
[63]
Proactive animal health means a genetic approach - CAB Cattle
Feb 27, 2020 · The American Angus Association is collaborating with scientists in Canada and Australia to get at the genetics of immunity.
[64]
[PDF] Exploring Next-Generation Phenotyping that Drives Commercial ...
Feb 19, 2025 · Diseases cause enormous economic losses throughout segments of the beef industry14. Immune resistance and resilience phenotypes are under ...
[65]
FAQs - CAB Cattle
When producers hear us talking about up to 75%-80% of the cattle grading Choice and Prime, they might think we've “made it” and move on to another trait, but in ...
[66]
Breaking Down USDA Meat Grades: Difference Between Prime ...
Aug 3, 2021 · Prime beef has 8-13% fat, Choice has 4-10%, and Select has 2-4% fat, with marbling being a key factor.
[67]
Understanding Beef Carcass Yields and Losses During Processing
Dec 18, 2022 · As a general rule, most cattle will have an average dressing percentage of 63 percent. This means that a beef animal weighing 1,000 lbs will ...
[68]
[PDF] Understanding Beef Carcass Information
USDA Beef Carcass Grades. Quality Grade. Marbling and carcass maturity are determinants of Quality Grade. Better Quality Grades are achieved with higher ...
[69]
Feedlot Performance Of Angus Steers Studied - Beef Magazine
Jul 22, 2011 · Arrival weight and days on feed averaged 788 lbs. and 135 days. Average daily gain (3.62 lbs./day) was similar among steers grading USDA ...Missing: pounds | Show results with:pounds
[70]
Exploring feeding performance of heavy yearling angus cattle
Feed conversion ranged from 5.7 to 7.37 pounds dry matter fed per pound of gain. Average daily gain ranged from 5 to 7.20 pounds per day. Feedout projects ...Missing: ratio | Show results with:ratio
[71]
History - CAB Cattle
Since 1978, the Certified Angus Beef ® (CAB®) brand has hit milestone after milestone. The original USDA certified program is still the market leader with more ...
[72]
[PDF] Certified Angus Beef G-1 Specification - Agricultural Marketing Service
Less than 30 months of age with lean color, texture, and firmness, meeting the requirements for A maturity in the U.S. grade it qualifies for1; e. Medium or ...
[73]
https://extension.psu.edu/grass-fed-vs-grain-fed-beef
[74]
Review: An overview of beef production from pasture and feedlot ...
Cattle are predominantly bred, grown and finished on temperate pasture, but grain finishing is practised for exported beef as well as for live cattle ...Missing: husbandry | Show results with:husbandry
[75]
https://extension.psu.edu/cold-stress-and-beef-cattle
[76]
Preparing your cattle for severe winter weather | UMN Extension
If a cow has a dry, heavy winter coat, she can withstand temperatures below 20ºF before feeling any cold stress. When cold stressed, cattle will change their ...Missing: temperate | Show results with:temperate
[77]
Vaccination — An Important Part of Cattle Management
Feb 19, 2025 · “Most people utilize vaccination against respiratory diseases,” she says. “Typically, these come in a combination product, covering several ...Missing: protocols | Show results with:protocols
[78]
Vaccination Program for a Cow-Calf Operation | MU Extension
Feb 4, 2025 · In calves, vaccination programs primarily focus on preventing respiratory disease (pneumonia) and clostridial diseases such as Blackleg.Missing: Angus | Show results with:Angus
[79]
[PDF] Feed Additives for Beef Cattle Diets
The primary effects of feed additives are increased feed efficiency and/or improved average daily gain. Some feed additives also reduce incidence of bloat, ...
[80]
[PDF] ISU Angus Cow 98398: A Model of Longevity
Typical purebred. Angus cows usually remain productive until about 10 or 12 years of age. The average age of mature cows in the ISU McNay herd is seven years ...
[81]
https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/farming/grazing-management-impacts-on-forage-systems/
[82]
Grazing Management Impacts on Forage Systems
Aug 21, 2020 · For example, rotational grazing can help reduce contact of livestock to infectious internal parasite larvae on pasture because of adequate rest ...
[83]
3 Steps for Low-Stress Cattle Handling - Livestock
Reducing stress during livestock handling can increase productivity, maintain or improve meat quality, reduce sickness, and enhance animal welfare.Missing: Angus cutting 2020s
[84]
[PDF] Qualitative Behavioural Assessment of Angus steers during pre ...
In addition to high ultimate pH, dark cutting is characterised by reduced shelf life (Gill and Newton, 1981), undesirable meat colour (Lawrie, 1958) and flavour ...Missing: 2020s | Show results with:2020s
[85]
FAQ - American Angus Association
The American Aberdeen-Angus Breeders' Association was founded in Chicago, Illinois, on November 21, 1883, with 60 members.Missing: 1879 | Show results with:1879
[86]
Current situation and future trends for beef production in the United ...
In excess of 60% of cattle fed in the USA now have some proportion of Angus ancestry, which is testimony to the success of the program that is now recognized ...
[87]
[PDF] STATISTICS DIRECTIONS - National Cattlemen's Beef Association
Cattle and calf numbers are down from 2023 by 1.9%. Total head on Jan. 1, 2023, was 88.9 million head whereas total head on Jan. 1, 2024, was 87.2 million head.
[88]
[PDF] AngusSource – American Angus Association
Jul 27, 2007 · USDA Process Verified October 18, 2005. Program Contact. Sara Moyer. 3201 Frederick Avenue. St. Joseph, MO 64506. Phone: (816) 383.5100.
[89]
https://www.angus.org/angus-media/angus-beef-bulletin/abb-articles/2025/03/thriving-with-shrinking-supply
[90]
The Second-Best Sales Year for Certified Angus Beef
Genetic selection and the right management earned producers nearly $100 per head above market price in grid premiums for cattle meeting the brand's standards.
[91]
2023 US Beef Exports Remained Strong, but Down From 2022 ...
Feb 16, 2024 · The 2023 beef exports totaled 1.29 million metric tons (mmt) with a value of $860.8 million, down 12% from the 2022 record.
[92]
[PDF] The 2024 Cattle Traceability Rule: Frequently Asked Questions
Aug 27, 2024 · WHEN DOES THE 2024 RULE GO INTO EFFECT? The implementation date is November 5, 2024. Cattle tagged with a metal tag or a plastic, non-RFID ...Missing: Angus sustainability
[93]
Breed Guide: The Advantage and Characteristics of Angus Cattle
Angus cattle are known for high-quality beef, natural marbling, strong fertility, resilience, good feed efficiency, and calm temperament. They are often black ...
[94]
World Angus Evaluation
The U.S., Canada and Australia have engaged in the trade of beef cattle genetics for many years. In 2023, the common currency created through the World Angus ...
[95]
Romania has the fastest growth rate in Aberdeen Angus cattle ...
May 21, 2025 · Romania is the European country with the fastest rate of population growth for Aberdeen Angus cattle population. It stands now at 126% increase in population.
[96]
https://www.angus.org/angus-media/angus-beef-bulletin/abb-extra/2025/05/mkt_global-beef-trade-economics
[97]
Certified Angus Beef Marks 47 Years With 1.235 Billion Pounds Sold
Oct 21, 2025 · Canada, South Korea and Mexico were the brand's leading international markets for sales. Certified Angus Beef ® Prime was also in high demand, ...
[98]
The Economics of Global Beef Trade - American Angus Association
May 21, 2025 · Beef trade in countries around the world is driven by a variety of factors, including cattle inventories, beef production, population, general and product- ...