Sunday, October 6, 2013

Finding Irish Black Cattle For Sale

By Rhea Solomon


Finding Irish Black Cattle for sale is relatively easy. Most ranchers and breeders now maintain their own websites. This will give the perspective client all the information they need. They can learn about the interesting and unique development of the breed and also about their many outstanding qualities.

The breed is different from most others in that it was specially developed using a foundation bull. Colorado rancher Maurice Boney was looking to develop a line of cattle that were not only strong and easy to feed, but could also be relied upon to produce consistently high quality meat. He was impressed by the work of animal genetics expert Dr Jay Lush who's work was prominent in the 1930's.

Building on the work of Dr Lush and his genetics research, it was Colorado cattleman Maurice Boney who really developed the breed. In 1971 he imported a full blood Friesan bull. This breed is from the low countries, and is particularly associated with Holland. One of its main features is its solid black coloring and hardiness. Friesan's are a mid sized animal that the renowned for their correctness of conformation and early maturity.

Boney began his breeding program in 1971. He imported a foundation bull of the hardy Friesan stock. This bull was mated with specially chosen cows from a line known as the Old Revolution. These animals were also known for their consistent ability to convert food into meat. The resulting breed has become known as the Black Irish because of their dark color.

People who do not have vast amounts of acreage can still breed Irish Black's. A small herd will do very nicely on a limited amount of grazing. They are proving themselves the perfect choice for small farms and those who are interested in organically produced meats. The breeding has been developed for early maturity. Most animals are slaughtered between thirteen and fourteen months of age. These means that the farmer does not have to keep them for too long.

These strict policies will help to ensure only the best bulls are allowed to breed. The breed has managed to stay pure for the last thirty years and aims to continue. Ranchers should be fully aware that only those animals that meet the stringent conditions can be marketed as pure.

One of the factors that a buyer must be aware of is that all the cattle are trademarked. When buying a bull they must be willing to sign a trademark agreement. All male calves that are not going to breed, must be castrated. These rules are in effect to keep the breed pure and allow for the continuation of their genetic superiority. The extremely careful planning means that they are homozygous for a lot of genetically beneficial features.

Small organic farms are always looking for animals that are easy to care for and consistent producers. Those already in business, or planning to start a farm, may want to consider Irish Black Cattle for sale. These impressive animals are well worth the investment and are an asset to any farm or ranch.




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