Ayrshire (cattle)
A mature Ayrshire cow.
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| Country of origin | Scotland |
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| Distribution | Worldwide |
| Use | Dairy, with exceptional foraging ability |
| Traits | |
| Coat | Red and white |
| Horn status | Horned, normally removed |
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Ayrshire cattle (IPA /ˈɛərʃər/) are a breed of dairy cattle from Ayrshire in southwest Scotland. The adult Ayrshire cow weighs more than 450 to 600 kilograms (990–1,320 lb). Ayrshires typically have red and white markings; the red can range from a shade of orange to a dark brown. They are known for their hardiness and their ability to convert grass into milk efficiently. The breed's strengths today are traits of easy calving and longevity.
The Ayrshire breed originated County Ayr, Scotland, before 1800. During the breed's development, it was referred to as the Dunlop, later the Cunningham, and finally, the Ayrshire. These are all parts of the County Ayr. Which strains of cattle were crossbred to create the Ayrshire is still not known.
Although they are now native to Ayrshire, Scotland, many cattle historians believe the Ayrshire breed originated in Holland. In 1750 they were crossbred with other breed of cattle, which led to their distinctive brown spots. The cattle were recognised as a distinct breed by the Highland and Agricultural Society in 1814. Many modern dairy farmers favour Ayrshires because of their longevity, hardiness and easy calving. These traits are thought to have developed due to the rugged conditions of its native habitat.
Ayrshire cattle were first brought to the United States in 1822, primarily to Connecticut and other parts of New England. The environment was similar to their native land of Scotland. The American Ayrshire Breed Association was founded in 1875. The Approved Ayrshire Milk programme, which licensed farms that owned Ayrshire cattle, began in the 1930s. Ayrshire milk was identified as being of higher quality compared to that of other breeds. Today, the cattle is owned by farmers in many areas of America, including New York and Pennsylvania.
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