crossbred cow

Crossbred cows are often easy to spot but not always as there are so many possible combinations. Color is often a reliable indicater.


An Angus bull used on Hereford cows always results in a black calf with a white face.

An Angus bull on Charolais cows will result in a monocolored calf that is neither white nor black. (usually a mild gray)

A Brahma bull used on Angus cows will result in a more muscular calf with more heat and insect resistance than the Angus normally has. But slower growing (late maturity)

There are many cross breeds that have been shown to be so superior to purebreds for some purposes that some attempt has been made to make the "cross breed" into a true breed. For instance----

Santa Gertrudis- LonghornxShorthornXBrahma for instance

Brangus-- BrahmaxAngus

Beefalo- American BisonX Angus or Brangus.

There are many more!!!

A trip to a livestock market would prove instructive as would an issue or two of "Progressive Farmer" magazine.

Learn your colors and appearance traits.