Two bulls, one clear signal: longevity that pays
In every edition of News Bulletin, K.I. Samen highlights a proven bull that fits the theme. Longevity remains a much discussed topic and that is why this time we are not focusing on one, but on two bulls. Bonhill Rambam rc and Big Macht differ in type, but share one important trait: an outstandingly high longevity.
Bred from a true 100 ton cow family
Calving ease bull Big Macht (Malki x Brawler x Gibor) comes from a strong cow family: the Broeks Elsies, known among others for Snowman, a pure milk bull and full brother of the great grand dam of Macht. The sire line is also impressive, with Malki, Brawler, Gibor and Oman, all bulls proven to deliver 100 ton cows. The foundation of his high longevity (740) is therefore easy to explain and stands rock solid.
Macht (aAa 516342) sires smaller, slightly rounder cows with sufficient width and body capacity, that produce easily (condition score 102). He also adds extra set to the legs, which are used very correctly. His absolute strength is claw health: with a score of 112 he is among the six highest bulls for this trait. In addition, he scores 108 for udder health and positive for late maturity and persistency. All secondary traits that further strengthen his longevity.
Milk, health and capacity
Rambam rc is a true milk bull. With more than 1,650 kg milk in his index and 100 kg fat plus protein, he can without doubt be called a production bull. However, his daughters show that he offers more than production alone. They combine a positive somatic cell count, good daughter fertility (103), late maturity and persistency. Together these traits form a solid base for longevity (552).
Rambam daughters show a wide chest (105), plenty of capacity (106) and spring of ribs (107), giving extra room for heart and lungs. Width and openness are visible from head to rump. With a rump width of 107 there is sufficient room for healthy, productive udders. In addition, Rambam rc breaks the trend of increasingly straight legs: his daughters show slightly more set (107), which is very welcome in many cows.
