Murray Grey

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Murray Grey is a breed of Australian beef cattle . The breed was discovered by chance with the crossing of a Shorthorn cow and Black Angus bulls in 1905 and then bred on the Thologolong property along the Murray River in New South Wales by Peter and Ena Sutherland. The first larger-scale commercial herds were established in the 1940s.

The Murray Grey is known world-wide for the economically important traits of calving ease, feed efficiency, and carcass quality. Traditional butchers prefer Murray Grey beef as its consistent quality and tenderness can be relied upon. Murray Greys are the third largest breed in Australia and, because of their superior carcass traits, are in strong demand for export to Pacific Rim countries.

1 Breed Characteristics
2 See also

[edit] Breed Characteristics

[edit] Size

Murray Grey bulls will usually weigh 1800-2500 lbs; cows normally weigh 1000-1400 lbs. They are a true medium-framed animal that can maintain body condition easily.

[edit] Calving Ease

Murray Grey calves are small and quick to their feet. They grow quickly and are adaptable to all climates.

[edit] Temperament

Murray Greys are calm to work with and are known as the "gentle builders of beef".

[edit] Color

Hair color ranges from very light silver to chocolate or dun grey; some animals are even black but the majority are silver to a silvery-khaki color. Their skin has a dark pigmentation, which helps prevent cancer eye.