| Romagnola
cattle originated from Eastern and Central Europe
and made their way to Italy. They have what is known
as the Bos Indicus genetics that carries the inherent
ability to adapt to harsh climatic conditions.
The Bos traits include the ability to sweat and secrete
an oily fluid from the surplus hide that is useful
in repelling insects. As a result these cattle flourish
in a hot, humid climate.
The calves are born at 80 to 90 lbs with brown coats
which can act as camouflage and then turn white gradually
over the next 3 to 6 months. They remain quite white
until late fall when all animals turn grayish with
very long hair. In simpler terms, their white summer
coat reflects the sun/heat and gray winter coat attracts
the sun/heat. Cows usually weigh 1300 to 1600 lbs
while a mature bull weighs approximately 2000 to 2500
lbs and tends to be much grayer.
The black hard hooves
make for less hoof rot, the black around the eyes
means less pink eye and in general, less handling
/ expense. Protective mothers’ and bulls’
dispositions are quiet, which is just another very
attractive trait.
Their heavier muscled hip proves to be an asset when
breeding with more traditional breeds. The hybrid
vigor combined in the terminal cross, creates an exceptional
offspring.
Romagnolas were brought into USA around 1972, and
now have fair distribution throughout the states.
Canada, a more conservative country, has not taken
advantage of what these cattle offer to the commercial
beef industry by means of consistently high yielding
cattle.
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