The latest Swiss Holstein evaluations released this week reveal substantial movement among both proven and genomic sires, with several newcomers making impressive debuts and established bulls demonstrating remarkable genetic progress.
Proven Sire Highlights
Sous-Moron BOSTON has emerged as the standout performer in the April 2025 proven sire rankings. It showcases exceptional milk yield improvements with a remarkable +80-point jump in Total Performance Index (TPI) since the December evaluations. Industry analysts note this represents one of the most significant gains for a proven sire in recent evaluation cycles.
“BOSTON’s combination of production efficiency and improved daughter fertility metrics positions him as an ideal choice for commercial dairy operations focused on profitability,” notes the Swiss Holstein Association’s evaluation director.
Cookiecutter HADLEY continues to cement his reputation for transmitting exceptional longevity, climbing three positions in the rankings while demonstrating improved protein components. His daughters’ performance data confirms his ability to produce productive cows in challenging commercial environments.
Swissgen ENRICO and EMPIRE have made notable advances in the proven rankings, with ENRICO particularly distinguished by superior protein content transmission (+70 TPI points since December) and EMPIRE showing remarkable improvements in health trait indexes.
Genomic Young Sires Make Waves
The genomic young sire list witnessed even more dramatic shifts, with TGD-Holstein BEAUTYMAN debuting near the top of the rankings. This young sire combines elite production potential with exceptional conformation scores that have caught the attention of progressive breeders.
“What’s particularly impressive about this evaluation cycle is the consistency we’re seeing in health traits across the genomic lineup,” comments leading Swiss dairy genetics consultant Maria Schneider. “The industry’s focus on breeding for improved fitness is paying dividends.”
Several sons of Cookiecutter HADLEY have entered the genomic rankings, suggesting his genetic influence will extend well into the next generation. These young sires demonstrate the same longevity traits that made their sire popular while offering improved mammary system scores.
Genetic Trends Worth Noting
The April 2025 evaluations highlight several vital trends in Swiss Holstein genetics:
- Longevity Focus: Both proven and genomic sires significantly improve productive life metrics, reflecting the industry’s emphasis on cow durability.
- Protein Efficiency: Enhanced protein percentages are increasingly prioritized, with top bulls demonstrating the ability to transmit improved components without sacrificing volume.
- Udder Health Advancements: Lower somatic cell scores across both lists indicate successful selection for improved mammary health.
- Balanced Breeding Approach: The top-ranked bulls demonstrate more balanced profiles than in previous years, with fewer extreme specialists and more well-rounded genetic packages.
Market Implications
These evaluation changes are expected to influence breeding decisions across European dairy operations. Several AI organizations have already reported increased demand for semen from the newly ranked top bulls.
Swiss Holstein Association officials note that the improved genetic trends align perfectly with the industry’s sustainability goals. Cows with enhanced longevity, improved health, and efficient production represent the ideal profile for environmentally conscious dairy production.
For breeders looking to capitalize on these genetic advancements, the April 2025 evaluations provide clear direction on which sires can deliver the balanced trait profiles increasingly valued in modern dairy operations.
- SWITZERLAND – ISET – Genomic 04/25
- SWITZERLAND – ISET – Interbull Dtr proof – 04/25
- SWITZERLAND – ISET – Domestic dtr proven 04/25
