Limousin (cattle)

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Limousin bull and herd near Bourg d'Hem in Limousin

Limousin cow in Germany

Limousin cattle are a breed of beef cattle originally bred in the Limousin and Marche regions of France. They are recognisable by their distinctive golden-red colouring.

1 History
2 Characteristics
3 Appearance
4 Temperament
5 External links

[edit] History

The first herdbook was established in 1886 for the improvement of the breed by natural selection. However, the breed may be as old as the history of Europe itself. Cattle found in cave drawings known to be 20,000 years old in the Lascaux Cave near Montignac, France, have a striking resemblance to today's Limousin cattle.

[edit] Characteristics

Limousins are a genetic source of larger weaning weights and muscle mass while maintaining relatively low birth weights. Limousins are known for their muscular build, feed efficiency, ease of management and comparable calving ease to other breeds.^{[citation needed]} Limousin cattle produce the leaner cuts of beef that have become a staple of the modern market.^{[citation needed]}

[edit] Appearance

Limousin cattle have a golden-brown coloration. Although other coloration such as black have been developed through cross-breeding with other breeds of cattle. In addition the the alteration of natural coloration other traits such as polled (a genetic lack of horns) have been introduced through cross breeding.

[edit] Temperament

Limousin breeders have worked extensively on disposition issues since their arrival in North America and are currently the only breed with a docility EPD. Most producers find them to be as manageable and easy to work with, if not better, than any other beef cattle breeds available today.^{[citation needed]}