Angus vs Red Angus
Angus or Red Angus? A side-by-side comparison of size, lifespan, temperament, care needs and observed prices, from our Animal Library.
At a glance
| Angus | Red Angus | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Beef | Beef |
| Origin | Scotland | Scotland, US registry |
| Mature weight | Cows 1,100–1,400 lb | Cows 1,100–1,400 lb |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years | 15–20 years |
| Temperament | Calm to alert | Calm, easy to handle |
| Best fit | Cow-calf herds, beef | Cow-calf herds, warm ranges |
| Docility | ●●●●● Selected for docility | ●●●●● Docile by selection |
| Hardiness | ●●●●● Handles cold well | ●●●●● Tolerates heat and cold |
| Upkeep | ●●●●● Polled, low-fuss | ●●●●● Polled, low-fuss |
| Beginner fit | ●●●●● Forgiving first herd | ●●●●● Good first herd |
| Observed price | Not enough prices yet | Not enough prices yet |
How they differ
- Docility: about the same (4 of 5 each).
- Hardiness: about the same (4 of 5 each).
- Upkeep: about the same (2 of 5 each).
- Beginner fit: about the same (4 of 5 each).
The Angus
Angus are the most common beef breed in the US, bred in Scotland for marbled beef and easy calving. For an owner that means a polled, black, moderate-framed cow that converts grass well and fits nearly every beef program.
Black hides soak up heat, so Angus need shade in the South. Popularity also means a wide range of quality; EPDs and genetic defect tests separate good seedstock from average.
The Red Angus
Red Angus share the Angus background of marbling and calving ease, carried in a red hide. That red coat handles heat a little better than black, which makes them popular in warmer and sunnier ranges.
Red Angus carry the same genetic defect risks as black Angus, so tested seedstock is worth the extra questions. Some commercial programs are built around black hides, so check your market first.
Questions
Is an Angus or a Red Angus better for a beginner?
Neither has the edge: both rate 4 of 5 for beginners in our Animal Library. Angus: Forgiving first herd. Red Angus: Good first herd.
What is the main difference between an Angus and a Red Angus?
Black hides soak up heat, so Angus need shade in the South. Popularity also means a wide range of quality; EPDs and genetic defect tests separate good seedstock from average. By contrast, red Angus carry the same genetic defect risks as black Angus, so tested seedstock is worth the extra questions. Some commercial programs are built around black hides, so check your market first.