History of Limousin cattle
Limousin cattle originate from the Limousin and Marche regions of France. The breed has to be both sturdy and adaptable to thrive in the area's fairly unfavourable conditions. Limousin cattle were originally used mainly as draft animals. Interest in their high quality meat started around 200 years ago.
Limousin cattle are popular
In the 1960s, Limousin cattle began being exported in large numbers. In the early 1970s, a small number of bulls and heifers arrived in Scotland. By the mid 1980s, the Limousin took over from the Hereford as the country’s number 1 artificial insemination breed. By the end of the millennium figures from the British Cattle Movement Service confirmed that the Limousin was the largest numerical beef breed in the United Kingdom.
Today, Limousin cattle can be found all over America, Continental and Eastern Europe, South Africa and South America.
Limousin cattle characteristics
Limousin cattle are golden-red in colour with paler sections around the eyes and muzzle. They are naturally horned but international breeders have now bred polled and black Limousins.
Females weigh around 700 kilos. Mature males around 1,100 kilos. The breed is renowned for its efficiency in converting feed to weight at a good rate.
The carcasses have up to 80% meat yields and the ratio of good beef to waste products is excellent. In France, Limousin cattle are still referred to as the ‘butcher’s animal’. The beef is well-regarded. It exhibits good marbling quality - making the meat tender - and is very low in saturated fats.
A good choice for crossbreeding
Limousin cows calve easily as birth weights are low. The breed has an excellent immune system. Due to their ability to contribute hybrid vigour, Limousins are favoured for crossbreeding with cattle such as the Hereford and the Angus.
Although primarily used for beef production, the Limousin is a popular sire for dairy farms. Their small calves make breeding with Friesians attractive.
With these qualities it is easy to understand why Limousin cattle are so popular.
Limousin cattle for sale
David Clarke Livestock source and supply Limousin cattle to farms across Ireland, the UK and Europe. Many other breeds of beef cattle are also available. These include Aberdeen Angus, Aubrac, Hereford, Parthenais and Salers. If you require assistance sourcing top quality beef, dairy or dual purpose cattle, please get in touch.
