How to Identify Brangus Cattle

Last Updated: June 10, 2021

Brangus cattle are a mix of Angus and Brahman cattle. Breeding these two types of cows together began around the 1930s in the USA. To be considered Brangus, a cow must have 3/8 Brahman and 5/8 Angus genetics.^{[1]
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Research source} While the term 'Brangus cattle' typically refers to black cows, Red Brangus also exist.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Identifying Physical Characteristics

1
Identify coloration. Angus cows and Brahman cows produce two colors of Brangus cows, black or red. While each color has similar genetic origins, there are different breed associations for Black Brangus cattle and Red Brangus.
2
Examine body type. Brangus cattle have a sleek coat and pigmented skin. Their skin is loose, and they exhibit neck folds. Brangus cattle have a slightly round rump. Bulls have a moderate hump. Their overall build is sturdy.

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3
Examine head characteristics. Brangus cows have medium to large ears. They are also naturally polled, or horn-less. There are otherwise no distinct facial characteristics to Brangus cows.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Identifying Breed Characteristics

1
Examine DNA testing. Brangus cows are tested through the breeding association to determine appropriate genetic distribution. To qualify as Brangus, the cow must exhibit 3/8 Brahman and 5/8 Angus genetics.
2
Note Brangus maturity and breeding. Bulls mature by two years and can start breeding by 18 months. Heifers are ready to breed by 14 months of age. The bulls can breed through age 12, while the females can produce calves beyond the age of 14.^{[2]
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3
Note weight and physical development. Calves gain weight quickly and are born about medium size. Mature Brangus bulls generally weigh between 1,800 and 2,000 pounds. Mature females weigh around 1,100 to 1,200 pounds.^{[3]
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4
Observe weather tolerance. This breed is noted for its resistance to heat and high humidity as well as cold environments. Brangus cows can withstand changing seasons and are found in different parts of the world, such as the USA, Canada, Mexico, Argentina, and Australia.^{[4]
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5
Note positive parent traits. Brahman cows were bred to exhibit disease resistance, hardiness, and strong maternal instincts. Angus cows are known for their superior carcass qualities and strong females, who exhibit superior fertility and milking ability.^{[5]
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Research source} Together, the Brangus breed capitalizes on both cows' positive breeds.
6
Note the unique Brangus traits. Brangus cows are known to be docile and to have strong maternal instincts toward their young. They exhibit moderate to late-maturing and gain weight quickly. They are hardy and exhibit strong parasite resistance.^{[6]
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Community Q&A

Question

What price will a non-registered Brangus cow bring vs. a registered Brangus cow?

Community Answer

The price you get depends on how you're arranging the sale. If you're selling directly to another producer, a registered Brangus cow will a bring a higher sale price, but if you are selling through a sale-barn there will be no difference in price between registered and non-registered.
Question

Where do Brangus cattle originate? How did they get introduced into the U.S?

Community Answer

The Brangus breed originated in North America. It was created by mixing Brahman cattle (also an American-developed breed that has its roots in Indian breeds Kankrej, Gir, and Ongole) with Angus. It was developed by the USDA at the USDA research station in Jeanerette, Louisiana, as well as other ranches in Oklahoma, Mississippi, Texas and Canada in the 1930s. Further development of the breed was done in Australia in the 1950s and '60s, but the breed's roots are American.
Question

How long is a Brangus cow?

Community Answer

From head to tail, Brangus cattle average 6 to 7 feet long.