By this time it was clear that the Simmentaler-Brahman cross-breed performed the best and was perfectly adapted for the conditions in Otjihangwe, specifically with regard to production and reproductive attributes. It was therefore the obvious choice to use the Simbra breed for the stud. The foundation of the stud was animals from Dr Athur Bagot-Smith.

There are currently 250 cows in the stud and because of the diversity of the breed there are enough variations to breed functional animals effectively.

The breeding policy and other qualitative requirements for the stud was the same as those for the commercial cattle. Due to the extensive farming conditions, heifers considered for stud breeding must reach the desired target weight within 24 months, at which time they are placed with the bull. Heifers not complying with the criteria set out for the stud and are not suitable for breeding are not sold (if we cannot use them to breed, they are also not suitable for other studs). These animals are slaughtered. Female animals have to produce a calf every year.

Animals that are marketed for breeding purposes are stringently selected according to strict selection criteria and the emphasis is placed on the following traits:

• Fertility

• Walking ability

• Maintaining constitution

• A structural standard that exceeds the standard of excellence set out by the Simbra Society.

Apart from visually judging the animals, other modern techniques like Breedplan are also used and animals are scanned to establish eye muscle span.  

A major objective is to breed animals that can be marketed profitably from the farm. Some of the chosen young bulls are subjected to a growth test after weaning. They are then taken to Orumbungu where they have to survive for 2 – 2 ½ years, in these mountainous conditions.  They learn to survive in grave conditions among rocks and leopards. The ones that are selected for stud breeding have been evaluated according to stringent breeding objectives. Only excellent animals receive the MW brand mark of quality and can be marketed as breeding animals.

Since 1998 has Mica participated in shows, mainly for 2 reasons: to compare our animals with the best there is and to present the type and quality of our animals to other breeders.