Belmont Red Cattle Breed: Facts, Uses, Origins, Pictures & Characteristics

The Belmont Red is a beef cattle breed that was developed by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) in 1954, in response to the need for a more placid and fertile cattle breed in the Australian tropics. The breed is predominantly half Afrikander, one-quarter Hereford, and one-quarter Shorthorn blood, but they may contain genes from several other breeds too.

These cattle are highly adaptable and can do well in both tropical and temperate climates. They are raised primarily for beef production. The breed has rapidly gained in popularity due to their improved fertility rates, hardiness, and docile nature, and although they are mainly produced in Australia, they can be found in many countries around the world.

Quick Facts About Belmont Red Cattle Breed

Belmont Red Cattle Breed Origins

The Belmont Red was developed in Australia by CSIRO in the mid-1950s in response to the need for improved fertility in native cattle. The cattle were selected not only for higher fertility but also for superior heat tolerance, tick resistance, good growth, meat quality, and docile temperament — qualities that the breed is revered for today.

The development of the breed by CSIRO was successful. The cattle were highly adaptable to both tropical and temperate climates and achieved 90% calving rates in commercial herds, resulting in the breed being released to Australian breeders in 1969.

Belmont Red Cattle Breed Characteristics

Belmont Reds are medium-sized cattle known for their superior heat resistance, good fertility, and great weight gain. They are hornless cattle that are fast growers, reaching full maturity as early as 10–14 months. Belmont Reds are raised primarily for meat production because they have a poor milk yield, but they are occasionally used for dairy production on small farms.

They are found and bred predominantly in Australia, where they are typically bred in large commercial farms on native pasturelands. They are well-adapted to hot, tropical climates.

Uses

Belmont Reds are raised primarily for beef production and have a relatively low milk yield that makes them unsuited for dairy production. They are also fast-growing cattle that reach maturity with a year or so. They are hardy and adaptable to various climates, making them ideal for small and large-scale meat production.

Appearance & Varieties

Belmont Reds are medium-sized cattle with short and smooth coats that are typically dark, brownish red in color, but some other color differences are found occasionally, including sporadic white markings. Belmonts do not have any horns, but the bulls have strong, thick necks with a characteristic lump on their upper back and fairly large ears.

Belmont Red Cattle Breed Population, Distribution, & Habitat

Belmont Reds enjoy worldwide distribution but are predominantly bred and raised in Australia and are commonly used in crossbreeding programs with other cattle. The breed was developed in captivity in Australia and remains as such. This is in large part why the breed is so even-tempered and docile. The breed’s exact population numbers and distribution are unknown.

Are Belmont Red Cattle Breed Good for Small-Scale Farming?

Since Belmont Reds are hardy, docile, and easy to care for, they are ideal for small-scale farming. They have high calving rates and grow to full maturity quickly, so they are not expensive or risky animals to keep or raise. The meat of Belmont Reds is known for its tender texture. The only real drawback of keeping these cattle for small-scale farming is their poor milk production.

Conclusion

The Belmont Red is not well-known outside of their native Australia but has been steadily gaining popularity worldwide for several good reasons. The breed matures quickly, has a high calving and fertility rate, is hardy and adaptable to various climates, and is relatively docile and easy to care for. For these reasons, Belmont Reds are ideal for both small-scale and large-scale beef production.

• See Also: Norwegian Red Cattle: Pictures, Facts, Uses, Origins & Characteristics

Featured Image Credit: Frances Lawlor, Shutterstock