Comparison of Growth of Hereford and F1 Hereford ×Shorthorn Heifers

Results presented in this paper show the growth records and weights at 30 months of age for 53 F1 Hereford × Shorthorn crossbred heifers and 55 Hereford heifers, all out of random-selected Hereford cows. This experiment is designed to test the possibilities of maintaining heterosis through a system of criss-cross breeding with Shorthorn, Aberdeen-Angus and Hereford sires on a Hereford female foundation. Analysis of the first phase of the experimental data brings out the following points: Crossbred calves were significantly heavier at birth and at weaning than Hereford calves and made significantly greater gains from birth to weaning. Crossbred heifers were significantly heavier than Hereford heifers at 18 and 30 months of age. Crossbred heifers had significantly higher body scores as yearlings than Hereford heifers.