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Place of Origin | Ireland |
Origin | Kerry Cattle are an Irish dairy breed believed to be one of the oldest breeds in Europe (from comparing skull formation) and most probably the descendants of the Celtic Shorthorn, brought to Ireland as long ago as 2000 B.C. They are still found grazing in the marginal pastures of the hill districts of southwestern Ireland. This breed is no longer classified as a rare breed. Kerry's are known for their milk and they produce good quality milk with small fat globules which are easily digestible and ideal for cheese and yoghurt production. |
Purpose | The Kerry has the distinction of being the first breed developed primarily as a milk producer. |
Appearance | In appearance they are black, of fine dairy type The Kerry is adaptable and hardy, of manageable size (350-450kg), calves easily and has a long and productive life, some still calving at 14 and 15 years of age. Kerrys are a manageable size, hardy, thrifty and easy calving and as such can make ideal house cows. As house cows they provide enough milk during each lactation for the average household and to rear several calves. As suckler cows double suckling is recommended after the first lactation. |
Horns | White horns tipped black, though many herds are now dehorned. |
Cows Average Weight | 430 kg (948 lbs.) |
Other Considerations | Average milk yield is between 2950 and 3650kg at 4% butterfat and there are quite a number of cows capable of yielding 4535kg at 4% and over. Globules of butter fat in their milk are much smaller than in any other breed and so the food value of the milk is enhanced |