Useful Information Regarding Charolais Cattle

By Linda Campbell


There are numerous breeds of cattle which have been bred over the years in order to boost the production of meat across the globe. There are certain breeds which are very old, having originated many years ago. Despite there being tremendous achievement in this industry, more research is being conducted to develop better animals which are capable of producing more and better meat. Among the cattle breeds which have existed for quite a while now are the Charolais cattle.

The Charolais area in Burgundy, France is the origin of this breed. Meat production was the main purpose for the development of this breed. The breed was initially considered for drought. It then found its way to other countries including the US as years passed. New breeds have been developed across the world by cross breeding Charolais breed with other breeds like Angus and Hereford.

Cross breeding this breed with Brahmans produces a breed called Charbray. Around the world, Charbrays are recognized as a different kind of breed in some nations. Charolais was first introduced into the United States in the year 1946. It was first introduced from Mexico in the southern states of the United states.

Later in 1965, the breed was introduced into the northern state of New England from Canada. In France, Charolais hold the second position in terms of abundance. The first position is held by the Holstein. France had about 4.22 million heads of these animals in the year 2014. The global population of the breed currently stands at around 730, 000 million. Czech Republic and Mexico are the countries with the highest numbers of these animals. United States has substantial numbers too.

The physique of these animals is quite huge and they usually have large muscles as well. The bodies are covered in a white coat whereas their muzzles are pink in color. Their hooves have a pale color. These characteristics are common in the first generation but subsequent breeds have different colors. Nowadays, it is possible to find animals with black and red coats.

The breed has a long body and horns. Their heads are short but broad with the loins and haunches being generally masculine. The coat lengthens and thickens during winter. As summer approaches, the coats gradually become shorter and sleeker. The weight of mature cows is about 900kg with bulls weighing up to 1,100 kilograms.

The cattle are known to have high growth rate and uniformity. They are strong and hardy animals which can survive harsh climatic conditions. Since they have a calm temperament, they are quite easy to handle. However, there are instances where the bulls are known to be aggressive and should be handled with care.

Calves are highly protected by their mothers. At times, the cows become violent to other animals or people who go close to their newborn calves. Newborn calves weigh significantly and are able to move after a few hours of birth. This is because they are also strong and hardy when they get born. The rate at which the calves grow is remarkable.




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