Shorthorn Cattle

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Shorthorn Cattle – Beef Production in South Africa (Summary)

Shorthorn cattle, originally developed from Teeswater and Durham cattle in North East England, are a dual-purpose breed used for both beef and milk production. The breed name refers to their characteristically short horns.

Type	Age Range	Weight Range	Estimated Price (ZAR)
🐄 Young Calves	3–6 months	100–160 kg	R3,500 – R5,500
🐄 Open Heifers	12–18 months	250–400 kg	R9,000 – R15,000
🐄 Pregnant Heifers	18–24 months	400–550 kg	R14,000 – R22,000
🐂 Mature Bull	24–36 months	700–900 kg	R20,000 – R35,000
🐂 Old Bull	48+ months	850–1,100+ kg	R18,000 – R30,000 (depending on condition and fertility)

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Description

Additional information

Shorthorn Cattle – Beef Production in South Africa (Summary)

History

Improved through line breeding by Charles and Robert Colling in the early 1800s.
One of their bulls, Comet, became the first bull sold for 1,000 guineas and gained legendary status due to his superior offspring.
Introduced to South Africa in 1861 by Thomas Trollip.
The Shorthorn Cattle Breeders’ Society was established in 1912.

Key Traits

Medium-sized cattle with red, roan (red & white mix), or white coats.
Cows average 500 kg, bulls about 950 kg.
Known for:
- High fertility
- Calving ease
- Good milk production
- Docility and strong maternal instincts

Production and Adaptability

Bred throughout South Africa due to their adaptability.
Can be used in pure herds or crossbreeding programmes.
Shorthorns have contributed to the development of breeds like Bonsmara, Santa Gertrudis, and Beefmaster.

Meat Quality

Offers good marbling and flavour, typical of English breeds.
Both bulls and cows are valued for transmitting strong growth and performance traits.

Shorthorns are an integral part of South Africa’s beef industry, prized for their versatility, meat quality, and foundational role in developing other successful breeds.

Discounted Price Range	Young Calves R3000, Open Heifers R7000, Pregnant Heifers R8500, Mature Bull R8000, Old Bull R12000

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Shorthorn Cattle

Shorthorn Cattle – Beef Production in South Africa (Summary)