Bos taurus

Description

This is a British breed of small dairy cattle, well known for its creamy milk. Although it does not produce as high volume as other breeds, the thickness and cream content means that many dairy farmers incorporate a ratio of Jerseys to their herd to increase the cream volume.

Distribution

Found worldwide but largely in Australia, Canada and Denmark.

Lifespan

18 - 22 years.

Size

A cow weighs approximately 450kg whereas a bull can weigh in excess of 800kgs.

Diet

They are vegetarians and ruminants, like goats and sheep, which means they have a 4-chambered stomach. They are a grazing animal, preferring to eat grasses.

Habitat

Grasslands.

Breeding

Gestation period of 9 months and has been known to have occasional twins.

Origin

The history of the Jersey breed can be traced back to 6000 BC to the middle east and even though it is difficult to trace are probably descendants of wild savage beast better known as Aurochs.

Popularity

With its good looks, gentle nature, strong constitution and rich milk, the Jersey cow is now famous world wide and is the second largest dairy breed in the world.

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