STUD BREEDERS MANUAL (Ook beskikbaar in Afrikaans)

Transcription

1 STUD BREEDERS MANUAL (Ook beskikbaar in Afrikaans) THE SIMMENTALER/SIMBRA CATTLE BREEDERS SOCIETY OF SOUTHERN AFRICA Private Bag X 7002, Langenhoven Park, 9330 TEL: /2 FAX: info@simmentaler.org / info@simbra.org Absa Bank, Brandwag Branch, Branch code , Account number: VAT number:

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS MEMBERSHIP 1 HOW TO REGISTER AN ANIMAL 2-4 BIRTH NOTIFICATIONS 2 CALVES FROM STUD PARENTS 2 SIMMENTALER HERDBOOK 2 SIMBRA HERDBOOK 3 DEREGISTERING OF ANIMALS 5 TATTOOING 6 HOW TO TATTOO A CALF 6 EAR TAGS AND BRAND MARKING 6 IMPORTANT CODES 7-9 CALF CODE 7 PIGMENT CODE 7 POLLED CODE 7 REMOVE ANIMAL FROM HERD LIST 7 MANAGEMENT CODES 7 COW CONDITION CODES 8 BREEDER S OWN COMPUTER PROGRAM 10 BRAND MARK OF STUD ANIMALS 10 SOLD FOR BREEDING 10 THE FOUNDATION OF BREEDING 11 PERFORMANCE TESTING WHAT ARE BREEDING VALUES (EBV S)? 12 HOW DO I GET EBV S FOR MY ANIMALS? 12 BENEFITS OF WEIGHING 12 PARTICIPATION 12 FERTILITY STILL NO BREEDING VALUES FOR: 13 - Weights - Milk - Reproduction - Calving Ease - Gestation Length - Carcass characteristics BASIC REQUIREMENTS 14 WEIGH AGE 14 HERDS WITH CALVING SEASONS* 14 DAYS TO CALVING BREEDING VALUES 14 ACCURATE EBVs 14 Page FARM VISIT 15

3 GENERAL ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION (AI) AND EXCHANGE OF BULLS 16 EMBRYO TRANSFERS 16 POLLED ANIMALS 16 POLLED INHERITANCE 16 IMPORTATION 16 SHOWING OF ANIMALS 17 TRAINING COURSES 17 JOIN A CIRCLE OF FRIENDS 17 PRICE OF BULL 17 ARE BULLS WITH GOOD EBVs CHEAPER? 17 STAR COWS 17 MINIMUM SCROTUM CIRCUMFERENCE FOR REGISTRATION 18 SIMBRA SHEATH/NAVEL CLASSIFICATON 18 TEST YOUR STUD BULL FOR THIS 18 SIMMENTALER M-BULLS (Milk bulls) 19 GENETIC LINKAGES (Link Sires) 19 REQUIREMENTS FOR SALES UNDER THE RULES OF THE SOCIETY Simmentaler 20 Simbra 21 HINTS FOR PURCHASING STUD ANIMALS 22 WEBSITE 23 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION EXPECTED CALVING DATE (VERWAGTE KALFDATUM) 29 BIF FRAME TYPE 30 DEHORNING (ONTHORING) 32

4 MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP may be registered on an annual basis (pays membership fee annually) or individuals may register as life members (single payment). Breeders in NAMIBIA must also join the Simmentaler/Simbra Breeders Association of Namibia. Contact them at or USE REGISTERED NAME Purchased cows must be transferred to the name in which the membership is registered at the Society. Should K vd Merwe for instance be registered as Beef Cattle Farming at the Society, purchased animals must be transferred to Beef Cattle Farming. HERD NAME (Prefix) Every registered breeder has a prefix which precedes the name or number of an animal - e.g. TABLEBERG (prefix) PRINCESS (name). The prefix is registered by ARC and may not be used by any other breeder of any other breed. HERD LETTERS are tattooed in a calf s ear in order to identify the breeder of such animal. BREED MORE THAN ONE BREED FOR THE PRICE OF ONE Our office handle two breeds. Breeders of e.g. Simmentalers can also breed Simbra without any additional member- or herd fees. Contact the office for details. RESIGNATION: One month s notice consigned by registered mail. 1

5 HOW TO REGISTER AN ANIMAL BIRTH NOTIFICATIONS All bulls that will be used in your stud must have a DNA report on record. Please see page 18 for details. Birth notifications must be submitted within 4 months after birth. When it is received after 4 months a late penalty fee will apply. The later the notification the bigger the fee. Birth Notification of calves may be notified as follows: on the Simmentaler/Simbra webpage (web registrations) please contact the office for your password required. on the Simmentaler/Simbra webpage under Forms, an electronic birth notification Excel form is available with the necessary instructions. electronic with the Herdmaster program A birth list (male and female separately) will be send to you after recording. The Birth certificate is available on request. Calves are identified by tattooing in the left ear CALVES FROM STUD PARENTS A calf from parents with papers is reported by means of a birth notification. After the particulars have been checked a calf book certificate is issued. An animal with this certificate is not yet registered and is known as a calf book animal. Calf book animals are presented for inspection between the ages of 1 and 3 years and receive a registration certificate if approved. SIMMENTALER HERD BOOK Simmentaler type* inspection recording as Appendix A A cow X registered Simmentaler bull = Heifers appendix B B cow X registered Simmentaler = Full registered heifers and bulls. *Grade or any breed upgraded to ¾ or higher Simmentaler. THE REGISTRATION SECTIONS Simmentaler animals are registered in the following sections and registration are in all cases subject to inspection: Appendix A: Structurally correct grade or herd cows/heifers, approved by an inspector. Birth date and year is obligatory. Appendix B: Female progeny of Appendix A cows X registered bulls. Fully registered: Male and female progeny of Appendix B cows X registered bulls and progeny of fully registered parents. GRADE SIMMENTALERS Commercial female Simmentalers may be presented for inspection from the age of 1 year with a view to recording in the Appendix A. It is an inexpensive and simple way of registering structurally correct grade Simmentalers. 2

6 SIMBRA HERDBOOK Simbra Breeding Programme (Simbra breed policy - effective from 1 March 2013) Male X Female = Calf Calf Brahman X Simmentaler = F1 F1 Simbra F1/F2/F3/SP X Simmentaler = F1 F1 Simmentaler X Brahman = F1 F1 Simbra F1/F2/F3/SP X Brahman = F1 F1 Brahman X Simbra Cum F1/F1/F2/F3/SP = F1 F1 Simmentaler X Simbra Cum F1/F1/F2/F3/SP = F1 F1 Brahman X Simbra Cum F0 = F1 Simmentaler X Simbra Cum F0 = F1 Simbra F1/F2/F3/SP X Simbra Cum F0 = F1 F 1 H e r d b o o k The next generation is always one higher than the lowest generation parent Male X Female = Calf Calf Simbra F1/F2/F3/SP X Simbra F1 = F2 F2 Simbra F1 X Simbra F1/F2/F3/SP = F2 F2 F 2 Herdbook The next generation is always one higher than the lowest generation parent Male X Female = Calf Calf Simbra F2/F3/SP X Simbra F2 = F3 F3 Simbra F2 X Simbra F2/F3/SP = F3 F3 F 3 Herdbook The next generation is always one higher than the lowest generation parent Male X Female = Calf Calf Simbra F3/SP X Simbra F3 = SP SP Simbra F3 X Simbra F3/SP = SP SP SP Herdbook 3

7 REGISTRATION AS F1 (First Simbra generation) (A) Use a registered Simmentaler bull and Brahman female (or vice versa) to breed half cross F1 bulls and females by submitting birth notification of F1 calf. (B) A registered SIM or BRA bull on an approved Simbra type female (AA) also gives you a F1 female if you submit the birth notification. Requirements for foundation animals: - all registered bulls must be registered. Give tattoo number. - certificates or official id numbers of females which is or was registered must be provided. - grade females must be inspected by our inspector. - Simbra type females, who are approved by an inspector, can also be recorded directly as Cum (fenotype Cum genotype). REGISTRATION AS F2 TO F4 Advancement/stabilisation of F1 to F4 occurs in pursuance of the breeding programme and is always subject to inspection. The F-grading of an approved animal is always one higher than the lowest F-grading of the parents... for example F4 x F1 = F2 or F1 x F1 = F2 or F1 x F3 = F2. MULTI SIRE MATINGS is permitted for the breeding of: - F1 and F2 Simbra This must be registered bulls and the identification of all relevant bulls must be submitted together with the birth notification. COMMERCIAL SECTION Active members participating in performance testing, can also have their Simmentaler grade cows (minimum 25) of registered Simmentaler bulls tested and will then receive breeding values. 4

8 DEREGISTERING OF ANIMALS Only by written submission of certificate, cancellation form, or other written instruction. Should an animal die or be culled, the correct disposal code must be forwarded to the office in order that the animal may be deleted from the levy list. Indicate one of the following codes: 1 = Died 2 = Fertility 5 = Culled (due to several reasons) and no longer on farm. 7 = Culled from stud herd but still on farm and will be weighed as grade. S = Stolen (Simmentaler) 8 = Stolen (Simbra) The registration of a cancelled animal may be reinstated at a fee. 5

9 TATTOOING Ear tattooing is the Society s official system of permanent identification and all calves must be tattooed within three months of date of birth. All calves are to be distinctly tattooed, as follows, as animals not tattooed or with an illegible ear tattoo do not qualify for registration: (i) your registered herd letters; (ii) year number, i.e. 13 for calves born in 2013; 14 for 2014 calves, etc.; (iii) sequence number of birth - 1 for first calf born in the year, 2 for second calf etc. As soon as the year number changes on 1 January, the sequence starts at 1 again. (iv) the appropriate SIMBRA section, viz. A for F1, B for F2 and C for F3. (No symbol for F4). The 3 rd calf born in 2014 at a breeder with the herd letters KL is tattooed as follows, preferably in the left ear of the animal: KL in the top line and 143 in the bottom line plus B because it is a F2 calf. Zero before the sequence is not permissible, e.g. tattoo 143 and not SIMMENTALER: Appendix A cows also get a H behind the numbers. SIMBRA: Cum cows are tattooed with the herd letters, sequence number from 1 followed by an AA. For example, JL0521AA. HOW TO TATTOO A CALF * Tattoo on the inside of an animal s ear. * Clip on a piece of cardboard to ensure that letters and numbers have not been placed the wrong way round in the forceps. * Remove all wax/oil from the animal s ear with a cloth and methylated spirits. * Rub a layer of Zebu stove polish or tattoo ink in the ear. * Position the forceps between the upper and lower seam (ridge) as closely as possible to the head - avoid dark patches. * Apply quick pressure when closing the forceps so that the points penetrate the cartilage. Keep the forceps closed for a few seconds and open swiftly to prevent rupture. * Rub the stove polish or well into the holes. * Wait for ± 4 weeks before checking the tattoo marks and inform the Society in case of incorrect tattoo marks. EAR TAGS AND BRAND MARKING The use of ear tags and the registered brand mark is recommended. 6

10 IMPORTANT CODES CALF CODE (Column on birth notification) : Unknown 3 : Serious problems 1 : Normal calving without assistance 4 : Caesarean 2 : Reasonable difficulty - with or without assistance 5 : Abnormal presentation PIGMENT CODE (Column on birth notification) Classify ALL calves eyes (including culled ones) independently from each other at birth (thus two codes per animal e.g. 1/3, 3/2 etc.): 1 : The largest parts of both eyelids are NOT pigmented. 2 : The largest parts of both eyelids ARE pigmented. 3 : The largest part around the eyes is COLOURED (spectacles). Contact the office for sketches. POLLED CODE (Column on birth notification) Natural polled animals with a P or scurs with S. REMOVE ANIMAL FROM HERD LIST Only by written submission of certificate, cancellation form, or other written instruction. Indicate one of the following codes: 1 = Died 2 = Fertility 5 = Culled (due to several reasons) and no longer on farm. 7 = Culled from stud herd but still on farm and will be weighed as grade. S = Stolen (Simmentaler) 8 = Stolen (Simbra) MANAGEMENT CODES (On weigh list and birth notification) Animals that have received different treatment should be marked with a letter (maximum of 3 characters between A-Z) of your own choice so that they are not directly compared with each other in the BLUP analysis. Examples: pre-birth management of dam (sick, show, etc.) affected calf s birth weight/calving code; calf s weaning weight affected due to dam that was milked; some animals in weigh group fed for show or sale; one group on old maize-fields and another on winter grazing; significant differences in feeding/grazing that affected the weight. 7

11 COW CONDITION CODES Cows can (not compulsory) be scored at weaning of calf. Please complete one of the following codes on the 200d weight list. CONDITION BC DESCRIPTION THIN 1 Bone structure of shoulder, ribs, back, hooks, and pins are sharp to the touch and easily visible. No evidence of fat deposits or muscling. 2 No evidence of fat deposition and there is muscle loss especially in the hindquarters. The spinous processes feel sharp to the touch and are easily seen with space between them. 3 Very little fat cover over the loin, back, and foreribs. The backbone is still highly visible. Processes of the spine can be identified individually by touch and may still be visible. Spaces between the processes are less pronounced. Muscle loss in hind quarter. BORDERLINE 4 Foreribs are slightly noticeable and the 12th and 13th ribs are still very noticeable to the eye. The transverse spinous processes can be identified only by palpation (with slight pressure) and feel rounded rather than sharp. Slight muscle loss in hind quarter. MODERATE 5 The 12th and 13th ribs are not visible to the eye unless the animal has been shrunk. The transverse spinous processes can only be felt with firm pressure and feel rounded but are not noticeable to the eye. Spaces between the processes are not visible and are only distinguishable with firm pressure. Areas on each side of the tailhead are starting to fill. 6 Ribs are fully covered and are not noticeable to the eye. Hindquarters are plump and full. Noticeable springiness over the foreribs and on each side of the tailhead. Firm pressure is now required to feel the transverse processes. Brisket has some fat. FLESHY 7 Ends of the spinous processes can only be felt with very firm pressure. Spaces between processes can barely be distinguished. Abundant fat cover on either side of the tailhead with evident patchiness. Fat in the brisket. 8 Animal takes on a smooth, blocky appearance. Bone structure disappears from sight. Fat cover is thick and spongy and patchiness is likely. Brisket is full. 9 Bone structure is not seen or easily felt. The tailhead is buried in fat. The animal s mobility may actually be impaired by excessive fat. Square appearance. *See photos on page 9 8

12 PHOTOS 9

13 BREEDER S OWN COMPUTER PROGRAM Several computer programs are available, contact office for more information. BRAND MARK OF STUD ANIMALS A stud animal that is tattooed according to the rules of the breeders society, is exempt from lawfully compulsory brand mark if: - the animal is still signed up as registered in the herd book (in other words the registration is not cancelled); - the animal is never transported without proof of registration viz. the certificate; and - the certificate of animals (especially bulls) sold for commercial breeding is submitted to us for transfer to the new owner. Animals with the brand mark are easily identified in the case of theft and therefore we recommend tattooing and brand with the registered brand mark. Brand animals low down on animal s front left shoulder. Contact the office for the Society s brand mark details and requirements. This brand does not replace the farmer s registered brand and misuse is fined heavily in accordance with the Act on Animal Brand Marks. All approved Simbra bulls should get the Simbra brand mark. SOLD FOR BREEDING the particulars together with the buyer s postal address, address and contact number within 30 days after sale for official transfer, to the office. In the case of a pregnant animal the details of the AI or service bull must be send to the office. Keep record of the buyer s details for future after sale services and herd promotions. The seller is liable for the transfer costs. Breeding with the purchased animal is only possible if registration of the animal is transferred. 10

14 THE FOUNDATION OF BREEDING Registration and performance testing starts with the submitting of a birth notification, for recording of a dam s calving date and calculation of calving ease breeding value. Be honest in the information that you submit parentage control tests are done from time to time on a non-selective basis. For each calving, whether the calf is alive or dead - registered or not, a birth notification must be submitted. Submit birth notifications in one batch when the oldest calf of the group is approximately three months old (thus maximal 4 X per year). The HerdMaster program can be used for electronic submission. Contact them at or herdmaster@agribsa.co.za The genetic relationship with other herds is important (BLUP analysis) and the exchange of bulls, semen shares and use of official AI bulls is recommended. Birth weight (column on birth form) has a large influence on calving ease. Don t guess the birth weight weigh ALL calves accurately within 24 hours after birth or don t weigh at all. Note: Although individual birth weights can be used as a guide, birth weight breeding values are much better predictors because they combine data from several sources. As the bull sires more progeny, the accuracy of his breeding value improves markedly and his individual birth weight becomes of little significance. Calving code (column on birth form): These codes are used for a calving ease breeding values and are very important. Be as accurate as possible don t guess and record ALL calves. Note: If you see your females on a regular basis (e.g. daily) it is reasonable to assume that a cow that calves without assistance between visits can be considered as unassisted (no difficulty) even though you did not attend calving. Management group codes. Complete a letter of your own choice in column on birth form if the birth weight/calving code of the dam of the calf was affected by the pre-birth management (very sick, recently showed or purchased at a sale and premature). MULTI SIRE MATINGS is permitted for the breeding of: - F1 and F2 Simbra This must be registered bulls and the identification of all relevant bulls must be submitted together with the birth notification. Cows purchased in-calf: The service or AI bull s details are provided by the seller - normally at the back of the transfer certificate. Complete details on the birth notification. 11

15 PERFORMANCE TESTING By integrating our Society s modern pedigree and inspection systems with the world s most advanced beef cattle genetic evaluation system viz. BREEDPLAN International, estimated BLUP breeding values (EBV s) are calculated for a range of characteristics and supplied to the breeders. Comparisons based on weights and/or indices are history and not recommendable at all in modern animal husbandry. WHAT ARE BREEDING VALUES (EBV S)? When you look at a bull a large portion of what you see is controlled by the environment (food, management, weather, etc.) and the smaller portion is due to genetics. Only the genetic component is transmitted to his progeny. However, we can t see this genetic component separately from the environment s influence and therefore we can t tell: - how much milk a bull s daughter will give; - how fertile his daughters will be; - how big his calves will be at birth and - how fast his progeny will grow. The EBV s are the genetic merit of an animal and therefore selection decisions are based worldwide mainly on EBV s. EBV s are expressed in units of measurement (kg) and are shown as + or from the breed average. HOW DO I GET EBV S FOR MY ANIMALS? Consult the Sim-Blup Manual for detailed information. BENEFITS OF WEIGHING EBV s on registration certificates, sale catalogues, show catalogue and herd lists. During his visit, the Technical Advisor, analyses the genetic performance of your herd and animals. Cows qualify for the star cow register stars on the pedigree. An annual report comparing your animals and herd to the breed in Southern Africa. Interim EBV s after submitting new post birth weights. If recorded, EBV s for your commercial animals. PARTICIPATION Minimum herd size: At least 10 calves born in a three-month calving season, otherwise at least 30 calves per year. Genetic links: In order to compare your genetics with the breed, you must use foreign sires i.e. sires bred and used in other herds (AI, semen shares). Which weights: Participants must at least weigh weaning weight of all calves (including culled ones). Measure cow s weight as well as the rump height (hip height). 12

16 FERTILITY STILL NO. 1 After much research SIMDEX was introduced to the cattle industry by this society. It is the best criterion of reproduction and is used in the judging of cows at all prominent shows. The age at first calving, number of calvings, intercalving period (ICP) and embryo flushing are expressed in one comparable figure by means of the Simdex formula. See page In any breeding system, whether it be extensive or intensive, commercial or stud breeding, REPRODUCTION has a greater effect on income than growth rate or any other trait. The SIMPRO (SIMmentaler/SIMbra reproduction) system involves a comprehensive report of reproduction and breeding criteria of all females which is critically analysed by the Breed Advisor and owner within herd context. Simpro based selection saves the breeder money (illuminates money gobblers);... measures adaptability better than the eye (unadapted cows are bad reproducers);... determines the correct cow size better than any judge (good reproducers have the correct size);... identifies superior breeding cows (inspection record next to each calving date);... aids management (days open, calves not reported and many others);... accelerates genetic progress (higher reproduction standard). Simpro herd lists are available, free of charge, per . BREEDING VALUES FOR: (If measured) Weights On 200 days (between 80 and 300 days old) 400d ( d), 600d ( d) and mature cow weight when calf s weaning weight (200d) is recorded. In order to identify popular growth curve benders, calves must be weighed at birth and dams at weaning. Milk 200 days weaning weight. Reproduction Days to calving with birth notification and scrotum circumference with 400d weights. Calving Ease Birth weight, calving ease as sire of calf and calving ease of daughters. Gestation Length Also, a calving ease predictor - contact the office. Carcass characteristics Marbling, eye muscle area and fat depth is measured on a live animal by means of ultrasonic scanning (good condition between 300 and 800 days old). Contact the office for a scanning visit. 13

17 BASIC REQUIREMENTS Weigh all animals on the farm including culled animals, or don t weigh at all. By weighing only the better animals (for registration) their performance will become average because their poorer performing contemporaries are not weighed. Keep groups as large as possible by weighing more animals less regularly. The minimum requirements for an analysis is a weigh group of the same sex, dam cow status (heifer/cow), born within 45 days from one another, kept in the same environment (management group), weighed on the same day and at least 3 animals from 2 or more sires. Group equally-treated animals together and use own-choice-letters to identify differently treated animals within a weigh group: show, sick, cow milked, sale (purchased/sold) or significant differences in feeding/grazing. Weigh a group before it is split (animals culled, bulls castrated). One (or two) short calving seasons is to the benefit of all. At least two sires per analysis group is necessary to contribute to the sire s EBVs. WEIGH AGE Birth: Up to 24 hours after birth. Wean (200d): days old BEFORE groups are separated. Compulsory Year Old (400d): days old. 600 days: days old. Cow (MCW): When calf is weaned. Compulsory Herds with CALVING SEASONS* Contact the office at /2 * = One or two calving seasons of a continuous period of maximal four months. DAYS TO CALVING BREEDING VALUES Requirements: Contact the office for form. One or two short calving seasons preferably with at least 25 serviceable females per season and mainly natural mating. At the end of the calving season each animal on the list, supplied by the office, must be marked with the correct disposal code. Compulsory ACCURATE EBVs For more accurate EBVs of your stud animals you can also weigh the calves of the following cows (free): 1. Cancelled cows (previously registered). 2. Grade cows (supply ID, birth year and blood composition). Notification of birth with a stud sire and unique ID is a requirement. 14

18 FARM VISIT FOR MANY BREEDERS THE ANNUAL VISIT OF A TECHNICAL ADVISOR IS THE MOST IMPORTANT SERVICE. THIS INFORMATION AND CONSULTING SERVICE WAS INTRODUCED FOR THE FINANCIAL BENEFIT OF THE STUD BREEDER. Inspection has been a prerequisite for registration since the establishment of the society, which means that a registration certificate will only be issued if the animal as well as its parents have been approved. Inspection is applied accordingly to production orientated standards. Animals between 1 and 3 years old must be presented for inspection during the annual visit. The inspector may approve, reject or recommend that an animal be suspended for a further inspection. A certificate is issued for animals which pass inspection and the registration of animals which are rejected are cancelled in the Herd Book and their certificates are destroyed. During the consulting visit the breeders also get the opportunity to discuss stud breeding affairs on a personal level with the Technical Advisor. GENETIC PERFORMANCE OF A HERD At performance tested herds the performance of each animal and the entire herd are annually analysed by means of the so called BLUP breeding value herd profile by the Technical Advisor for the breeder. Through this the breeder can compare his animals/herd with the breed in Southern Africa and he can compose a planned mating program to eliminate weaknesses. REPRO-SYSTEM In any breeding system, whether it be extensive or intensive, commercial or stud breeding, REPRODUCTION has a greater effect on income than growth rate, feed conversion, weaning mass, dressing percentage or grading. The REPRO-system involves the critical analyses by breed advisors and owner of reproduction criteria of all females within herd context (environment). This service saves the breeder thousands of Rand, measures the adaptability of his cows, determines the correct cow size, identifies the superior breeding cows and renders administrative assistance. 15

19 GENERAL ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION (AI) AND EXCHANGE OF BULLS A large number of calves is AI begotten with semen obtained from the breeders own bulls, local AI Stations or authorised imported semen. The exchange of bulls and semen is recommended and if the user is not the owner of the bull, we create a permit that authorize the user to use the bull. EMBRYO TRANSFERS Calves resulting from this breeding method are reported by means of a special form (Schedule O). Contact the office regarding the administrative procedure concerning the notification, purchase, selling and importation of embryos. POLLED ANIMALS Animals which are classified by the Technical Advisor as naturally polled or animal with scurs are registered in the polled section and are designated as such on the registration certificate. POLLED INHERITANCE PP on certificate = homozygous polled. P on certificate = heterozygous polled. No P on certificate = no polled factor. PP x PP = all calves PP (all polled) PP x P = 50% PP and 50% P (all polled) PP x None = 100% P (all polled) P x None = 50% P (polled) and 50% none (horned). P x P = 25% PP, 50% P and 25% none. IMPORTATION Members are permitted to import animals, semen and/or ova provided the legal application form for an import permit is completed. These requirements, application forms and other information are obtainable from the office. 16

20 SHOWING OF ANIMALS The Breeders Society has no objection to the showing of cattle and is the only Breeders Society which already since the late seventies has disclosed reproduction details of cows to judges at all major shows by entering official calving data on the ring cards of all cows. Cows are therefore judged according to the breed standard (appearance) as well as fertility. The Simdex/Simbradex of cows exhibited at all major shows appears on the judging ring cards. Well trained judges of the Society officiate at all major shows and regional championships. Members who intend showing their animals must pay special attention to the following: (i) attend a few major shows since judges briefly motivate their placing to the spectators after each class. (A procedure adopted since 1966); (ii) cows which do not calve regularly do not stand a chance in the show ring; (iii) study the Basic Principles of Judging ( / > shows and judges) available from the Society on application; (iv) attend a Simmentaler/Simbra Training Course; and (v) consult breeders who show cattle regarding the preparation of an animal for a show they will be glad to assist. TRAINING COURSES These courses are presented annually in conjunction with the Clubs and are strongly recommended. Contact the office for details. Candidates passing a Training Course, interested in further training, may attend the Junior Judges Courses and those who pass are eligible to be trained as an official senior judge by means of the senior candidate training procedure. JOIN A CIRCLE OF FRIENDS Clubs have been formed in order to handle the affairs of breeders on a regional basis. The Clubs arrange amongst others field days, learner courses, regional championships and regional sales. Contact the office for the telephone number of the Club Secretary in your area. PRICE OF BULL For commercial use, use this guideline: 7 weaners buy one registered bull. 230kg (ave weaning weight) x wean calf price say R20.00 x 7 = R ARE BULLS WITH GOOD EBVs CHEAPER? YES, indeed, if we look at the genetic values. For example: the weaning weight EBV of bull A is +20 (top 5% of the breed) compared with bull B s +6 (lower 5% of the breed) while superficially both of them will look the same. If these two bulls are used on equivalent cows bull A will put R MORE in his owner s pocket than bull B. STAR COWS Analysed once a year and approximately 8% of these cows receive stars. Requirements: (i) above average in Simdex and 200d weight and milk; (ii) 4 calvings = *star, 5 calvings = **stars and 5+ calvings = ***stars. 17

21 MINIMUM SCROTUM CIRCUMFERENCE FOR REGISTRATION <400kg = 32cm = 33cm = 34cm = 35cm = 36cm 601> = 37cm SIMBRA SHEATH/NAVEL CLASSIFICATON (Classification on pg. 24) 1. Score ALL bulls and heifers according to page 24 or don t score at all. 2. Score when you determine the weaning weight and complete the scores on the 200-day weigh form. 3. If you do not submit weaning weight, then submit the ID number of the animal and sheath/navel classifications. 4. The same person must score each time. TEST YOUR STUD BULL FOR THIS [1] COMPULSORY - DNA for possible future parentage determination: Place about hair shafts from the end of the tail in a plastic bank bag, write identification and telephone number very clearly on the bag and mail to Unistel or Clinomics. [2] Parentage Verification: As (1) but take hair sample of calf, sire and dam contact Unistel or Clinomics. [3] GeneSTAR GENETIC MARKERS FOR MABLING AND TENDERNESS: Use the same hair shafts (see above) contact Unistel. Contact Information Unistel Postal address/ Post Net Suite 13 PO Box Physical address P/Sak X22 Universitas Tygervallei Bloemfontein Number mpm@sun.ac.za info@clinomics.com Clinomics Uitzich Road Bainsvlei Bloemfontein

22 SIMMENTALER M-BULLS (Milk bulls) Only milk bulls are recommended for use in dairy herds. The Breedplan milk-ebv is not an indicator of milk in the bucket production and must be ignored for dairy purposes. The following bulls qualify as M- bulls: 1. Imported semen with positive milk values (BLUP). 2. Local Simmentaler bulls with a LNR milk recorded dam and sire as 1 above. 3. F2 or F3 bulls which are bred as follows: milk recorded dairy breed cow X m-bull = F1 heifer birth notification. Milk recorded F1 X M-bull = F2 heifer/bull birth notification or F2 X M-bull = F3. F2 (or F3) bulls can be registered in the B register as PB (pure bred) if strict appearance and milk record requirements are met. GENETIC LINKAGES (Link Sires) Genetic linkage is established by the use of common sires across herds. To compare animals from different environments, herds must have some performance recorded progeny from common animals (typically common sires), which are used to bench mark one herd against another. Genetic linkage is also important within a herd, to compare animals born in different years and raised in different contemporary groups. At the within herd level, link sires provide linkage between contemporary groups and dams can provide additional genetic linkage across years. Example of how to achieve links: Year and bulls used AI Bull A AI Bull A Herd Sire D Herd Sire E Herd Sire B Herd Sire B Herd Sire E Herd Sire F Herd Sire C Herd Sire D Herd Sire F AI Bull B Assume the following three bulls AI-bull A, herd sire B and C - are used in 2014 breeding season. In 2015, you decide not to use herd sire C but herd sire D. Thus, AI Bull A and herd sire B is still used and so links are established within and between herds for the years 2014 and If there is not an AI bull used, links can still be established by using one of the previous years sires together with the new sires, as seen in the year If in the next year an AI bull is available, he can be used with the sires of the previous year. For more information go to 19

23 REQUIREMENTS FOR SIMMENTALER SALES UNDER THE RULES OF THE SOCIETY (National and private) 1. When signing these sale rules, the seller has to submit written proof that his sale animals tested clean of TB and BM within 60 days before the sale, or submit a CA3 certificate/veterinary certificate specifying that all his animals tested clean in the past twelve months. No sales will be accepted without these certificates. 2. Animals older than one year (on day of sale) will be presented as a registered animal in the catalogue and the registration certificate will be transferred to the buyer at the seller s expense. 3. Animals under 1 year* are recorded as calf book and their official calf book certificate will be transferred to the buyer at the seller s expense. Members of the Society can offer these animals between the ages of 1 and 3 years for full registration in the Herd Book. 4. The seller has signed and submitted the following Seller s Certification : 4.1 that the animals offered have been tattooed and checked and that it corresponds with the certificates. If the buyer can prove within 30 days after the sale that the animal was not tattooed or was incorrectly tattooed, guarantee 6 will apply. 4.2 that all bulls older than 365 days* (i) have been certified as fertile by a veterinarian OR (ii) the bulls semen has been certified as fertile by a registered veterinary technologist, no more than 30 days before the sale. Motility, morphology and scrotal circumference shall be evaluated and specified on the prescribed evaluation report (see p. 9) and that is is guaranteed by the seller up to 7 calendar days after the date of sale. Fertility certification shall be available on request from the seller for up to 1 year after the date of sale. If the buyer can present a veterinary certificate that proves the contrary within 7 days after the sale, guarantee 6 will apply. 4.3 any guarantees concerning the freezing of semen shall be made by a separate agreement between the buyer and seller. 4.4 that all bulls tested clean of trichomoniasis en vibriosis. 4.5 that all sires of calves not on record at the Society, and service sires of pregnant cows, as well as semen, have a DNA certificate/report on record that the bulls have been screened. 4.6 that the following animals presented as pregnant have been certified as pregnant by a veterinarian and such certification is available on request from the seller for up to 1 year after the date of sale provided that such animals presented comply with the Simmentaler sale rules: - heifers 31 months and older* also see item 7 (iv); - cows within 12 months (365 days)* after last calving on record; and - all other female animals advertised as pregnant in the sale catalogue or any enclosures thereto. - Egg donors Simdex requirements are not applicable. Must be pregnant within 12 months since last flush date or date of birth of own calf. - Receptor animals Simdex requirements are applicable. Must be pregnant within 12 months since last embryo calf or date of birth of own calf. 4.7 If such animals that have been certified pregnant are certified as not pregnant by a veterinarian within 48 hours after the sale, guarantee 6 will apply. 5. If a female animal is sold as open or not pregnant and is certified pregnant by a veterinarian within 30 days after the sale, guarantee 6 will apply. 6. If the necessary proof is provided to the seller in writing within the relevant period, the seller shall, at the choice of the buyer, replace any animal as described above under 4.1, 4.2, 4.4, 4.5 and 5, with other animals of equal value or refund the purchase price. 7. Animals offered shall meet with the following requirements: (i) refer 2 and 3; (ii) minimum Simdex reproduction index at last calving of 80 (cows with 1 calf) or 85 (cows with two or more calves) (iii) Simmentaler bulls shall have a birth weight breeding value at the time of the compilation of catalogue; (iv) maximum predicted age of heifers with 1 st calving no higher than 39 months (1 185 days*); (v) Auxiliary studbook A female animals may be offered, provided they meet the following requirements: (a) At least two calvings after registration, and (b) within twelve months after each calving have again been confirmed/certified to be pregnant; (c) Auxiliary studbook A female animals not meeting these requirements may still be sold as part of the 10% rule, which includes animals that do not comply with the Simmentaler sale rules. * = age on day of sale. THE COUNCIL AND STAFF OF THE SIMMENTALER/SIMBRA CATTLE BREEDERS SOCIETY OF SOUTHERN AFRICA ARE INDEMNIFIED AGAINST ANY CLAIMS OF BUYERS THAT MAY ARISE FROM SALES ON THIS SALE. THE SIMMENTALER/SIMBRA CATTLE BREEDERS SOCIETY ARE INDEMNIFIED AGAINST ANY DAMAGE THAT WE OR ANY THIRD PARTY MAY SUSTAIN AS A RESULT OF UNSAFE OF DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS SUPPLIED BY THEM. APPROVED BY COUNCIL Jul

24 REQUIREMENTS FOR SIMBRA SALES UNDER THE RULES OF THE SOCIETY (National and private) 1. The seller must provide proof that the sale animals are tested clean for TB and BM within 60 days of the auction, or provide a CA3 certificate / vet certificate verifying that all his animals tested negative in the last 12 months. No sales will be accepted without these certificates 2. Animals older than 1 year (sale date) will be presented as fully registered in the catalogue and the registration certificate will be transferred to the buyer on the seller s expense. 3. Animals under 1 year* are recorded as calf book and their official calf book certificate, will be transferred to the buyer at the seller's expense. Members of the Society can offer these animals between the ages of 1 and 3 years for full registration in the Stud Book. 4. The seller has signed and submitted the following '' Seller s certification ": 4.1 that the tattooing of animals presented corresponds with the identification on the certificates.. If the buyer can deliver proof within 30 days after the sale that the animal was not tattooed or wrongly tattooed, condition 6 will be applicable. 4.2 that all bulls older than 365 days *, not more than 30 days before the sale (i) are certified fertile by a veterinarian OR (ii) that the semen of the bulls are certified as fertile by a registered veterinary technologist, motility, morphology and scrotum circumference should be evaluated and specified in the report, and that the seller guarantees such certification up to 7 calendar days after the sale. (ONLY PRESCRIBED VETERINARY DOCUMENT - PG 10 ACCEPTED) Certification of such fertility must be available from the seller up to 1 year after the date of sale. If the buyer can provide a Veterinary Certificate within 7 days of the sale that proves contrary evidence, condition 6 will be applicable; 4.3 any guarantees regarding the freezing of semen shall be made by a separate agreement between the buyer and seller. 4.4 that all bulls are tested negative for Trichomoniasis and Vibriosis. 4.5 that all sires of calves not on record at the Society, and service sires of pregnant females, as well as semen, have a DNA certificate / report on record and that the bulls have been inspected. 4.6 animals that are presented as pregnant, must be certified as pregnant by a veterinarian and such certification must be available from the seller up to 1 year after the date of sale The first section of the catalogue is REGISTERED Simbras. Animals that appear in this section of the catalogue, must comply with the following rules: a. Open heifers may be offered up until age 30 months. b. A pregnant heifer offered, must calve on or before 39 months. c. A cow without a calf, should be certified pregnant, and the expected calving date may not be later than 18 months after her last calving date, and the cow may not be open for more than 18 months between calving s d. Cum animals must have had at least two or more calvings after registration, if the cow is without a calf she must be certified pregnant, and the expected calving date may not be later than 18 months after her last calving date, and the Cow may not be open for more than 18 months between calvings. e. Ova donors - Must be pregnant within 18 months since last flush date. f. Simbra bulls must have a birth weight breeding value at the time of compilation of catalogue; g. A minimum of 90% on offer in this section should qualify in terms of the above rules The second section of the catalogue is CUM SIMBRA heifers: (Breeder / seller must confirm the date of birth of the animal). a. Open CUM heifers may be offered only up until age of 30 months. b. A Pregnant CUM heifer presented must calve on or before 39 months The third section of the catalogue consists of SIMBRA TYPE: a. Simbra type animals that do not meet the requirements of the above two divisions, can be sold here. b. Animals that are sold under this section must be clearly identified and tattooed with the seller's herd letters, year of birth and unique serial number. 4.8 If any certified pregnant animals are certified as not pregnant within 48 hours after the auction, by a veterinarian, condition 6 is applicable. 5. If a female sold as "open" or "non-pregnant" is certified by a vet as pregnant or calves within 30 days after the auction, condition 6 is applicable. 6. If the necessary proof is submitted in writing within the relevant period to the seller, the seller shall, at the option of the buyer, replace any such animal as described here above under 4.1, 4.2, 4.4, 4.5 and 5 with another of equal value or refund the purchase price. * = age day of sale. THE COUNCIL AND STAFF OF THE SIMMENTALER/SIMBRA CATTLE BREEDERS SOCIETY OF SOUTHERN AFRICA ARE INDEMNIFIED AGAINST ANY CLAIMS OF BUYERS THAT MAY ARISE FROM SALES ON THIS SALE. THE SIMMENTALER/SIMBRA CATTLE BREEDERS SOCIETY ARE INDEMNIFIED AGAINST ANY DAMAGE THAT WE OR ANY THIRD PARTY MAY SUSTAIN AS A RESULT OF UNSAFE OF DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS SUPPLIED BY THEM. 21

25 HINTS FOR PURCHASING STUD ANIMALS Our inspector will render valuable assistance to potential buyers who seek advice at NATIONAL bull sales and sales held UNDER THE AUSPICES of the breeders society. Give Schullie a call on It is much easier to buy than to sell at a later stage. Before buying you must be sure of what, to whom and where you wish to sell later on. Always insist on the certificate: (i) animals with a registration certificate have already passed inspection and meet the requirements of the breeders society; (ii) animals with a calf book certificate have not yet been inspected and could possibly be rejected in which case you have purchased a grade animal and (iii) an animal without a certificate has been rejected due to some or other defect, its parent/s has/have failed inspection or it is a grade animal. The tattoo marks in the animal s ear must correspond with the identification marks reflected on the certificate. Please ensure that the seller forwards all necessary information to the society for transfer to your name you cannot register progeny if this is not done. When purchasing cows, the reproduction record (intercalving period, Simdex/Simbradex) is of importance. Avoid purchasing cows without an official calving record and ask for the seller s SIMPRO list. When purchasing pregnant cows, the seller must furnish you with full details of the AI or service bull. Should you prefer to start with established mother lines you should purchase from established breeders. If you own grade cows, they can be registered by means of inspection by our Breed Advisors. Attendance of a breed training course is recommended (all members are notified). The visually perceptible superior and inferior characteristics of animals are dealt with in detail.. The advice of breeders in your area is generally very valuable - contact us for telephone numbers. 22

26 WEBSITE Also see separate web manual included FOR EVERY BODY Pedigrees (up to 20 generations), EBVs, sale catalogues, AI bulls, trait leader bulls, telephone numbers and addresses of breeders, activity calendar, judges/inspectors and many more. FOR PERFORMANCE TEST BREEDERS (with password from the office) - free: Click on member area, complete your member number and password and there you are: Monthly breeding value reports, certificates and weigh forms. Change your membership details (telephone, fax, , etc.) electronically. List with breeding values of all your active animals. Which star cows are in your possession (or have you bred any star cows). List with progeny of a certain bull with breeding values, pigment, etc. You have a bull with a low milk EBV but with other good characteristics and want to mate him with cows that are good in milk. Combine a list of such cows for planned mating. The inspector is coming and you require a herd list of unapproved animals in your possession. To select your show string you need a list of cows with good Simdexes. You want to quickly print a list to record your weights. Did the Society receive your birth notifications? FORMS Birth notifications, days to calving, cancellations, sales, weigh and Unistel forms for download and return per . SALE Pamphlet and full official details of each animal. Animals which comply with your performance needs are listed by means of an EBV Enquiry. SHOWS Official panel of judges and who judge where. Also, show classes and basic principles of judging. 23

27 SIMBRA SKEDE EN NAELVEL KLASSIFIKASIE SHEATH AND NAVEL SKIN CLASSIFICATION 1. PUNT ALLE BULLE EN VERSE as die speengewig bepaal word en voltooi punting 1 tot 9 op 200 dae weegvorm. SCORE ALL BULLS AND HEIFERS when the weaning weight is determined and complete scores 1 to 9 on 200 day weighing form. 2. Punt bulle soos hieronder uiteengesit. Skede is n gekombineerde eienskap wat lengte, vlesigheid, grootte en opening beskryf. Score bulls as explained here below. Sheath is a composite trait and describes length, fleshiness, size and opening. 3. Punt ALLE verse se naelvel op n skaal van 1 = uiters slordig/groot tot 9 = uiters skoon. Score the navel skin on a scale of 1 = extremely heavy to 9 extremely smooth/clean for ALL heifers. 4. Punt ALLE diere op plaas - selektiewe punting sal nie aanvaar word nie. Score ALL animals on farm - selective scoring will not be accepted. Ongewens Undesirable 1 6 Ongewens Undesirable 2 Ongewensde hoek van skede = V vorm 90 0 Undesirable sheeth angle = V form 7 Ongewens indien V-vorm Undesirable if V-vorm 3 Gewensde hoek van skede = Y vorm 45 0 Desirable sheeth angle = Y form 8 4 TE skoon - ongewens TOO clean - undesirable

28 914 OUD LAASTE KALWING S I M D E K S / S I M D E X Voorbeeld : 56 mde oud by 3de kalwing = simdeks van 96 Example : 56 moths old at 3rd calving = Simdex of 96 Simdeks berekening ouderdom 24 mnde met 1ste kalwing Indien gekalf voor 24 mnde is maksimum simdeks 120 GETAL KALWINGS (Geen spoeling) / NUMBER OF CALVINGS (No flushing)

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32 VERWAGTE KALFDATUM (285 DAE DRAGTIG) n Koei wat op 14 Julie (sien 14 Jul boonste lyn) gedek/geïnsemineer is se verwagte kalfdatum is 25 April (net onder die 14 in kursief ). Die Sim-metode : Dekdatum min 3 maande plus 10 dae = Verwagte kalfdatum Jan Oct Nov. Feb Nov Dec. Mar Dec Jan. Apr Jan Feb. May Feb Mar. June Mar Apr. Jul Apr May Aug May Jun Sep Jun Jul Oct Jul Aug. Nov Aug Sep. Dec Sep Oct. 31

33 BIF Raam Tipe Hip Height Measurement Die heup hoogte meting behoort geneem te word vanaf n punt direk oor die heup bene (hocks) wanneer die dier op n gelyk oppervlak staan. The hip height measurement should be taken at a point directly over the hip bones (hocks) with the animal standing on a level surface. VROULIK (Bv. 12 mde met 119cm hoogte = raamgrootte 5) Ouderdom Raam Grootte (maande)

34 BULLE (Bv. 12 mde met 119cm hoogte = raamgrootte 4) Ouderdom Raam Grootte (maande)

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