Dairy

British Friesians were initially bred in the northern provinces of Holland. They became established in England and Scotland during the nineteenth century. The British Friesians are slightly smaller than Holsteins and have a bit more flesh. They are commonly called a dual-purpose breed because the heifers are used to produce milk and male calves can be fattened for beef. British Friesians tend to have a longer calving interval compared with other dairy breeds (401 days)

Milk Yield in litres-6600

Fat- 4.1%

Protein- 3.33%

For many years the dairy industry in Ireland was dominated by one dairy breed, the Holstein-Friesian. It is the world's highest-milk-producing cow, producing large milk yields but with a low milk solids content. It is a larger animal than the British Friesian with black and white markings. It originates from Holland and Germany, where it was bred for high milk production. Unfortunately, breeding for high milk production led directly to a decrease in the fertility and health of this breed. A mature cow can weigh 580 kg. The calving interval of the Holstein-Friesian can be greater than 400 days.

Milk yield in litres- 8000

Fat- 3.92%

Protein- 3.18%

The purebred Holstein is also a very popular dairy breed in Ireland. Holstein are large cattle with a black and white coat pattern or a red and white coat pattern. They also can produce large volumes of milk.

Milk yield in Litres- 8600

Fat-3.7%

Protein-3.2%

The Ayrshire is a dairy breed that originates from Scotland. It has red and white markings. It is known for its easy calving and longevity, and its milk has moderate butterfat content and high protein content.

Milk yield in Litres- 7000

Fat-4.11%

Protein-3.32%

The Jersey is a small breed that is light brown in colour and originates from the Channel Island of Jersey. This breed produce milk high in percentage fat and protein and a lower yield compared to the Holstein-Friesian. Since this animal is a much smaller breed of dairy cow (400-450 kg) it has a lower maintenance cost. Other advantages include easy calving, high fertility, resistance to lameness, and longevity.

Milk yield in litres- 5500

Fat- 5.41%

Protein- 3.82%

The Kerry Cow is a rare breed of dairy cow that is native to Ireland. It is a small animal, weighing 350-450 kg. Its coat is black and it has white horns with black tips. It is an extremely hardy animal and is docile, with easy calving.

Milk yield in litres- 3000-7000

Fat-4%

Protein- 3.1%

These cattle originate from the Montbeliarde region of France. Their coat is red and white. Their milk is particularly good for cheese-making, due to its high levels of casein. A mature cow can weigh 600-700 kg. This breed is also known for its good fertility, longevity and low levels of mastitis.

Milk yield in Litres- 7846

Fat- 3.9%

Protein-3.45%

The Norwegian Red is a medium-sized dairy breed native to Norway. A matured cow has an average weight of 550-650 kg. It is known for its easy calving, high fertility and health, especially udder health.

Milk Yield in litres- 7200

Fat-3.88%

Protein-3.35%

Jersey X Holstein cows are smaller, 50-60 kg lighter and tend to be dark brown in colour compared to the purebred Holstein-Fresian

Milk yield in litres- 5272

Fat-4.77%

Protein- 3.88%