Exploring the traits of the Angus

While the Aberdeen-Angus may have its roots in Scotland, it is thriving in South Africa due to its meat quality and maternal abilities, amongst other traits, according to the Angus Society of South Africa.

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The Aberdeen-Angus was developed from the polled and mostly black cattle of North East Scotland in the early 19th century. The UK breed society was founded in 1879.

Internationally known as Angus, these cattle are naturally polled, and can be black or red in colour. White may occasionally appear on the udders of female animals. The animal is considered medium to large in size, with mature bulls and cows reaching an average weight of 850kg and 545kg respectively, according to the website AgDaily.

In the US, red and black Angus are considered separate breeds; however, there are no genetic differences between them, and they aren’t regarded as different breeds in South Africa.

AgDaily states that the black Angus is one of the most prominent beef cattle breeds in the US, with 304 577 registered cattle in 2019.