A two breed rotation cross can result in a 15% increase in weight of calves weaned per cow joined.
This system requires two joining groups and two sire breeds. The daughters by sire breed A are mated to sire breed B and vice versa. It is very simple to introduce a two-breed rotational cross into a pure-bred herd. Simply divide the herd in two; buy a bull of a compatible breed and join him to half the herd. Join the original bull to the other half ofthe herd. The heifers from this joining will be joined to the bull of the other breed for the rest of their lives.
Features:
- Suits herds requiring two or more bulls.
- Uses two breeds of bull at the same time.
- Each sire breed is mated to the daughters of the other.
- Self replacing.
- Requires two mating groups.
- Some form of identification is required to determine sire breed.
- Breeds need to be of similar mature size to reduce calving difficulty.
- Suits vealer, store weaner or steer production depending on breed choice and environment.
A Hereford x Angus cross is the most popular two-way cross in southern Australia. Their similar maturity patterns and size makes this cross very compatible and highly sought in a range of markets. They are equally suitable as vealers, store weaners or steers, for feedlots and as finished grass-fed bullocks.
Market: Suit store weaners, vealer production or steer or breeding female production.
Example 1 Two Breed Rotational Cross Herd
Environment: Suit low-medium rainfall area 450-700 mm (18-27 inch) with improved pasture.
