Braford cattle Disadvantages, Advantages, Facts

The Braford was developed to meet the demands of the beef industry for a reliable and productive breed of cattle. The breed was created by crossing a Brahman cow with a Hereford bull. They combine traits from both breeds. Initial attempts were unsuccessful because the bulls had poor feet and eyes and were not acclimated to the local environment.

Ranchers started testing different varieties of Brahman-Hereford hybrid bulls. In the end, they became successful in locating Braford bulls that were producing calves that fulfilled their requirements, and they made use of these bulls and their offspring in order to establish what is now known as the Foundation Herd of the Braford breed in the United States.

Additionally, there is a distinct lineage in Australia. The Australian Braford breed was established in Queensland between 1946 and 1952.

The breed shares several features with the Brahman, such as a hump, loose skin, short hair, etc., and the Hereford, such as its distinctive color markings. It is resistant to high temperatures and ticks and continues to thrive in extreme tropical conditions. The breed is gaining popularity in both the tropical and temperate regions of Australia. In comparison to British breeds, it matures a little slower. As a result, it produces high-quality yearling and steer carcasses with minimal waste.

Advantages

Resilience

Braford cattle have been selected for their hardiness and adaptability in order to thrive in Australia's varied environment. With the superior mothering ability and a low risk of calf death; this breed is ideal for producing top-tier weanlings. Farmers who raise cattle for commercial purposes might think about using Brafords in their breeding operations. Braford crossbred cattle have excelled in commercial settings like feedlots.

Recommended for commercial breeders

Commercial breeders looking for the benefits of direct breeding with any breed to produce a hybrid vigor will find Brafords to be very ideal. For instance, a cross between Hereford and Braford results in offspring with greater development rates and the capacity to withstand temperature variations in both heat and cold.

Combined vigor

You can increase the hybrid vigor benefit by breeding Braford Bulls with your existing female herd. Smaller calves guarantee problem-free births in commercial settings, while the hybrid vigor of the Braford cross provides superior growth performance. The end product satisfies the requirements of a wide variety of markets and has an exceptional weight for its age.

Ability to adapt

The resilience and adaptability of Brafords and their crossbred counterparts have been demonstrated in environments ranging from snow to arid. 

Outstanding maternal instincts

The outstanding maternal characteristics of Brafords are well known. Brafords are highly regarded for their early maturity, fertility, calving ease, optimal milk output, maternal aptitude, and productive longevity. 

Resistances to heat and insects

Because of a chemical in their blood, Brafords are also resistant to heat and insects. Warm climates are better for them.

Disadvantages

Health problems

Certain health issues, like foot rot and tick fever, can affect Braford cattle.

Temperament 

Some Braford cattle could be more aggressive than those of other breeds, which could make them challenging to handle.

Cost

Due to the popularity and distinct crossbreed traits of Braford cattle, they may cost more to buy than other breeds.