Origin of Breed
Since the late 1970’s, Amerifax cattle have been satisfying cattlemen looking for increased growth and fertility in their herds. This breed originated in the United States in 1977 with the founding of the Amerifax Cattle Association. The name “Amerifax” is derived from the American Friesian-Angus cross. They are a mixture of 5/8 Angus and 3/8 Beef Friesian. Beef Friesians, known for their strength in production, were brought from Ireland to the United States in 1971. The Beef Friesian and Angus breeds complement each other, producing a functional and productive offspring. Amerifax cattle retain all the desirable Angus traits that cattlemen have depended on and profited from for more than a century.
Physical Description
Amerifax cattle are polled and can either be black or red. The breed features outstanding carcass traits and excellent weaning and yearling performance. Weaning weights are 75-100 lbs. heavier than calves from straight British breeds. Amerifax calves grow efficiently, finishing 15 to 18 months in the feedlot. Amerifax Steers grade with a high cutability, finishing around 1050-1200 lbs. Bulls reach 1100-1200 lbs. at yearling weights and around 2000 lbs. at their mature weight. Both males and females have a superior fleshing ability and natural volume and muscling. Amerifax cattle have longevity and would be an asset to any herd.
Defining Characteristics
These highly fertile cattle have excellent maternal characteristics. They produce newborn calves around 65-85 lbs. A moderate birth weight paired with the large pelvic size of both bulls and females allows for excellent calving ease. Amerifax are known for their early development where offspring can be successfully bred as early as yearlings. Females display tremendous mothering ability and produce an abundant supply of milk without experiencing udder difficulties, leading to heavy weaning weights of calves. Bulls are aggressive breeders and can handle breeding a large number of females, even on large pastures.
The breed features a shortened gestation length, which only 274-280 days. The shortened length allows for naturally easier calving since it is 10 days to 2 weeks shorter than most other breeds. Both males and females possess gentle dispositions, which prove great for any operation. Amerifax are easy to work with, resulting in a lower investment in and less wear and tear on handling facilities.
Development in America
Since their establishment in the United States in the late 1970’s, Amerifax cattle have been successfully incorporated into many operations nationwide. They are used in correlation with Angus cattle for superior hybrid vigor.
Registry and Improvement Programs
In 1977, The Amerifax Cattle Association was established. Their headquarters are located in Hastings, NE.
http://www.ansi.okstate.edu/breeds/cattle/amerifax/index.htm
http://www.vbarcattle.com/amerifax.html
http://www.dustyprairieranch.com/aboutus.html
