“The Braunvieh is the ideal option for cross breeding of beef cattle in Africa. The breed is known for exceptional milk production, outstanding fertility, endurance and calving ease,” said Lourens.
“Brahmans, on the other hand, fare extremely well in cross breeding because of the high level of hybrid vigour shown by the offspring of these crosses.”
READ Stud pays quarter of a million for 50% share in Brahman bull
Crossing the two breeds has resulted in females that are able to drop and raise a heavy weaner of between 260kg and 280kg annually. The BXB is known for exceptional growth, extraordinary meat and milk production, stamina and adaptability.
Crossing white Brahmans with Braunvieh results in a dark animal with a characteristic white muzzle and nose. The BXB is even-tempered and early maturing.
According to South African BXB producer Andre Reitsma, the cattle are widespread in South Africa and can be found in, among others, the Kalahari and Karoo.
The Le Granges added that the BXB’s toughness and flexibility made it suited to the most extensive cattle farming conditions in Namibia.
READ Improving beef yield through crossbreeding
Reitsma explained that BXB weaners were favoured by the South African feedlotting industry. The crosses are also ideal for oxen production and are comfortably grown out on the veld. BXB heifers are popular and sought after as future herd dams.
Another bonus is the fact that both the Braunvieh and the Brahman are well known for their excellent walking ability. This is of particular importance on widespread farms, where the animals often have to traverse considerable distances.
@farmersweeklysa Farmer’s Weekly’s Annelie Coleman is in Namibia for the week. Her first farm visit was the Aurora Braunvieh Stud. #FarmersWeeklySA #agriculturetiktok #agrijournalist #officefortheday #cattlefarm #braunvieh #namibia ♬ original sound – Farmer’s Weekly SA
