Simmental

Simmental cows at pasture in the mountains (Corina Burri / swissherdbook)

Origin and development

The Simmental breed developed from a number of local types of cattle in the Bernese Oberland. Originally a triple-purpose cow, it was adapted to family farming, serving as an excellent draught animal and providing high quality milk and meat. When herdbook breeding began in the early 1900s, the population became more homogeneous. The Simmental is now a dual-purpose breed, ideally suited for meat production. Exports of this breed have influenced beef cattle rearing across Europe and around the worldwide.

Description

The coat colour is usually dun, occasionally red, with white markings (white head, belly and legs). The cows are medium-sized, with a strong build, well developed muscles and a calm temperament.

Performance traits of animals registered in the herdbook (2019: 14 797 standard lactation records)

h 5960 kg milk h 3.97% fat h 3.35% protein

Breeding objectives

Milk yield under favourable conditions from the 3rd lactation of 7500 kg, with 4% fat and 3.5% protein. Good fitness traits (fertility, udder health). Adult cows should be 140–148 cm in height and weigh 650–800 kg.

Simmental cow in the Vaudois Alps (Corina Burri / swissherdbook)

References

swissherdbook (www.swissherdbook.ch) Mutterkuh Schweiz (www.mutterkuh.ch)