Simmental Breed of Cow:

The Simmental breed dates back to the Middle ages.



Early records on Simmental information show that this breed of cattle is a cross between a smaller indigenous breed and large German cattle. These were first bred in the Simme Valley in the Berner Oberland in Switzerland. That’s where the breed has got its name from.

The Simmental cow is the breed in Switzerland, while the breed is known by different names in various places.



For instance, in Austria and Germany, it is known as Fleckvieh, while in France, it is called Pie Rouge. Pezzata Rossa is the name of the breed in Italy.

Church records account for the existence of productive, large, red and white cattle. These animals are known for their rapid growth, draught abilities and outstanding dairy production. The Swiss ‘Red and White Spotted Simmental Cattle Association’ was formed in 1890.



This breed has spread to various continents.

• Physical appearance: These cattle are a shade of gold to deep reddish-brown with white marks. The rich color can be all over or on a background of white. The heads of the cattle are white with a white band on the shoulder. Most of the animals have color around their eyes, and this reduces cancer problems and pink eye. The lower legs are generally white. Simmental cattle can be polled or horned. The horns are generally upturned. Bulls are 150-160 cm tall, while the cows are 135-150 cm tall. They weight about 700-900 kg, while the bulls are about 1300 kg.
• Behavior: Easy to manage and docile, Simmental cattle pass on their easy temperament to their offspring. The cows are good mothers, have a high milk yield, and a long life of ten to twelve years.
• More information: Simmental cattle can gain about two to three pounds every day and can quickly convert the food they eat. These cattle are heavily fleshed with not much waste fat. For generations, these cattle have been selectively bred to maximize the yield for less cost. This has led to the adaptable and heavily muscled physical characteristics. These cattle are known to adapt very quickly to all sorts of husbandry situations. These cattle have a high milk yield and improved meat quality.

The SimAngus and Simbrah have been developed for specific needs.

Simmental cattle have good longevity, high fertility and are easy calvers. They are suitable for breeding programs.