Holstein cattle are incredibly popular. The Holstein is by far the number one breed in the world for milk production.
Holstein cow milk production
Holstein cows produce over 14,000 litres of milk, on average, per year on the Almarai farms in Saudi Arabia.
In Europe, the yearly average for a Holstein cow is around 7,500 litres. This can obviously vary. On a low cost, spring calving, grass based, farming system on twice a day milking the average is around 6,000 litres. While a highly intensive system on three times a day milking could see a Holstein cow produce around 12,000 litres.
Holstein history
Holstein cattle originated in Europe. The Holstein developed from black animals and white animals used by the Batavians and the Friesians. These ancient Germanic tribes lived along the Dutch Rhine Delta around 2000 years ago. A breeding program focused on producing animals that would make the very best use of the area’s most abundant resource – grass. The end result is the highly efficient, milk-producing, black and white Holstein cow we know today.
Holstein cow characteristics
A typical Holstein cow weighs around 680 kilos. A healthy calf will weigh around 40 kilos. Calf growth is rapid and they are easy to care for. The Holstein is good-natured and easy to handle.
The Holstein also contributes to the worldwide meat supply. The Holstein cow is often cross-bred with beef breeds to produce a better quality meat. Little wonder then that the Holstein can now be found in many countries around the world.
Top quality Holsteins available
David Clarke Livestock source top quality Holstein cows from here in Ireland and throughout Europe. Our strong relationship with the IHFA (the Irish Holstein Friesian Association) helps us to source top quality Holstein cattle that will suit any system.
Read more about our inititiative with the IHFA which gives farmers the opportunity to secure contracts guaranteeing the purchase of pedigree heifers.
Watch us deliver pedigree Holsteins to farms in Cheshire and Lancashire.
Holstein cows for sale and many other breeds
In addition to Holsteins, David Clarke Livestock also supply other dairy and dual purpose breeds.
These include the Ayrshire, British Friesian, Jersey, Brown Swiss, Fleckvieh and Danish Red. Please get in touch to discuss your cattle requirements.
Our friendly, experienced team supply cattle to farms across Ireland, the UK and Europe. We have also delivered cattle to the Middle East and North Africa.