Chapter 10 Large-Animal Production 535 Courtesy of Hoard’s Dairyman Jersey. Jersey cattle are the second most popular dairy breed in the United States. Jersey cattle originated on the Isle of Jersey in the English Channel off the coast of France. They are one of the oldest dairy breeds and were imported into the United States in the early 1800s. Jerseys are the smallest breed of dairy cattle in terms of size. Mature cows are usually 1,000 lb or lighter. They are cream to fawn color and sometimes almost black. Their points are black and they have a distinctive dished face. Jerseys are known for the exceptional fat content in their milk. They rank first among all dairy breeds in fat content, which makes their milk popular for products such as ice cream. Courtesy of Hoard’s Dairyman Milking Shorthorn. Shorthorns date back to the early 1500s and are probably the oldest breed of cattle. The Milking Shorthorn is a portion of the Shorthorn breed, which was a dual-purpose breed. Milking Shorthorns were developed in Northeastern England in the valley of the Tees River. They were imported into the United States in the late 1700s. Milking Shorthorns come in an array of colors. Milking Shorthorns can range from red, to red and white or roan, much like Shorthorn beef cattle. Cattle are medium in size with mature cows weighing approximately 1,400 lb. Milking Shorthorns are known for their versatility and being docile. They are also appreciated for their easy calving and longevity. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Red and White (Holstein). Red and White dairy cattle are simply red Holsteins. The Red and White Dairy Cattle Association was started in 1964 in the United States. Their breed association is strong and growing. They have basically the same characteristics as Holsteins except for their variation in color. They are a larger breed in stature, like Holsteins, with mature cows weighing around 1,500 lb. They have excellent milk production. Courtesy of Hoard’s Dairyman