Alzu has chosen Beefmaster

as their chosen breed because of their hardiness

under the tough African conditions for starters.

We also believe the breed has the most

profitable production reputation.

We focus on breeding the perfect combo between the Bos Indicus and Bos Taurus cattle, giving us light birth weights and heavy weaning weights, making calving easier on your heifers & cows, and speeding up recovery after calving times getting them ready for the next cycle.

This spectacular combination of the Beefmaster has an excellent feed conversation ratio contributing to the production efficiency and profitability.

Beefmaster cattle are used as a mother line in the breeding program for reasons of fertility and longevity, with a 90% conception rate contributing to the success of the Beefmaster breed.

Buying a bull isn’t all that difficult. The secret lies in buying a bull that can add value to your business. And value addition is indeed what Alzu Beesmasters focus on.

Together with the weaning weight trait, the breed’s other inherent traits are hardiness and adaptability, as well as good milk production.

PERFORMANCE TESTING

At ALZU Beefmasters, we do performance testing in a controlled environment. The testing includes measuring birth weights, weaning weights, 12-month weights, and 18-month weights.

When cattle are born within 2-3 months of each other, they are placed in contemporary groups. In these groups, the individuals are placed within a controlled environment, allowing for meaningful comparisons among them.

THE ALZU BEEFMASTER

According to Leon, the ideal Alzu Beefmaster bull is precocious and well-muscled, with a loose skin, a smooth coat and a medium sheath. The bulls must be able to walk strongly and show vibrancy, which is a good indication of high libido. “When it comes to type, I prefer a bull that is more inclined towards Indicus, with a smooth coat, but complemented by Taurus muscling. We have a bull for every taste. Some of our bulls are more inclined to Indicus and some to Taurus.”

The cows in the Alzu herd are medium framed animals, but they easily wean calves weighing more than 50% of their own body weight.

When you think of Alzu Beefmasters, you can trust that we stand for excellence in breeding and raising top-quality Beefmaster cattle, focusing on maximizing weaning weights and optimizing the value added to your business.

THE IDEAL ALZU BEEFMASTER

Leon says the most important trait in their selection is high weaning weight, but coupled with low birth weight. The herd’s average birth weight is 33kg and the average weaning weight, including heifers and bulls, is 265kg. “The Beefmaster is an exciting new breed that has not yet been discovered by commercial farmers. However, if I look at what the Beefmaster has done for Alzu, the profitability aspect is amazing.”

Together with the weaning weight trait the breed’s other inherent traits are hardiness and adaptability, as well as good milk production.

When you think about Alzu Beefmasters, you think of better weaning weights that lead to added profits. This is what we stand for.

A step-by-step approach to how we breed Alzu Beefmaster bulls

Establish Breeding Goals

Determine the specific traits and qualities you wish to improve in your stud bulls, such as carcass quality, weight gain, fertility, temperament, or adaptability. This will guide your breeding program.

Develop a Breeding Plan

Determine which bull and cow combinations will best align with your breeding goals. Consider the genetics, performance records, and phenotypic traits of potential breeding animals to make informed decisions.

Select Superior Genetics

Choose breeding stock with excellent genetic potential. Look for bulls and cows with desirable traits, as well as strong performance records and EPDs. Consider using artificial insemination (AI) or natural service based on the resources and technology available.

Ensure Proper Nutrition

Provide a well-balanced diet that meets the nutritional needs of growing bulls. Feed high-quality forage, supplemented with protein and mineral-rich concentrates as necessary. Ensure adequate feed quantity and quality for optimal growth and development.

Manage Health and Wellness

Implement a comprehensive health program to prevent diseases, parasites, and deficiencies. Maintain vaccination schedules, deworm regularly, and provide appropriate veterinary care. Regularly monitor the health, body condition, and reproductive soundness of the stud bulls.

Monitor Growth and Performance

Track the growth and development of the bulls through regular weighing and body condition scoring. Ensure they are meeting growth targets and adjust nutrition, if required, to promote optimal growth and muscle development.

Conduct Breeding Soundness Examinations

Before breeding, perform comprehensive breeding soundness exams on potential stud bulls to evaluate their reproductive health, including semen quality and fertility. This helps ensure the bulls are physically and reproductively fit for breeding.

Implement Effective Breeding Program

Employ an effective breeding program that maximizes genetic diversity while focusing on desired traits. Use natural service or AI, implement proper estrous synchronization techniques and ensure adequate breeding management practices.

Record Keeping and Data Analysis

Maintain meticulous records of lineage, performance, health, and breeding outcomes. Regularly evaluate the data to identify trends, assess the success of your breeding program, and make informed decisions for future generations.

Continual Evaluation and Improvement

Regularly reevaluate your breeding goals, strategies, and genetic selection. Continually strive for improvement by incorporating new technologies, advancements, and best practices in your breeding program.

Remember, breeding top-quality Beefmaster stud bulls requires a long-term commitment to genetic improvement, adherence to best management practices, and a focus on producing animals that excel in desired traits while maintaining overall breed standards.

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