Although the Black Angus breed is stunning and unique, it is not the only one; and diving into this blog could give you an insane amount of insights regarding the infamous black cattle breed of cows.

This blog lists down 10 types of black cattle breeds and all there is to know about them – things that would practically blow your mind!

The Top 10 Black Cattle Breeds

“There are more than 250 beef cattle breeds in the world, and 60 percent of them are found in the United States of America.”

Let’s explore the pure black cattle breeds in more detail:

1. Australian Lowline

Cattle from Australia’s Lowline breed have Angus ancestry – A compact breed of beef cattle known for producing high-quality beef and being simple to manage, Australian Lowline Cattle are well-liked by farmers.

The black Australian Lowline black cow, a smaller breed of black cows created via selective breeding, is one of the most well-liked ones in its nation. In smaller expanses of land, this provides amazing meat. This breed of black cow’s ability to grow quickly in the first year is one of its biggest advantages.

2. Belted Galloway

This type of Black Cattle breed originated in Scotland as a solid-colored cow, but gained its belt through the introduction of Dutch Belted blood. They are sometimes referred to as “Oreo cattle” because of their black colour with a white stripe running through their middles. They arrived in America for the first time in 1950. Belted Galloways do produce lean, high-quality beef, even though they are frequently bought for their decorative traits.

Despite being a medium-sized species, this black cattle breed can weigh more than 60% of its life weight when dressed. Galloways can stay warm in the winter without accumulating back fat like some other breeds because they have a double coat of hair.

3. Welsh Black

The Welsh Black cow is a native of the United Kingdom with a long history that dates back to the Roman era. The majority of these black cattle breed cows have horns and a deep, rich black hue. They produce high-quality meat and typically produce respectable milk. Outside the United Kingdom, these cattle are increasingly in demand; they are widely available in New Zealand, Canada, and other nations. They have a lifespan of up to 20 years.

Due to its size, swift growth, and durability, this breed of cow is beloved by modern farmers. They also offer a strong return on investment. They adapt well to many climatic conditions and have the strength to travel across difficult terrain.

4. Black Angus (Aberdeen Angus)

The most common black cattle breed of cattle in the United States is the Black Angus (also known as Aberdeen Angus), and thanks to some excellent marketing, the demand for their meat has increased. As a result, these cattle and cross-breeds with predominantly black markings frequently fetch a premium at the sale barn. This breed originated in northeastern Scotland and was initially introduced to the United States in 1873 by a rancher in Kansas.

They are noted for their early growth, ease of fleshing, decent milk supply, and superb marbling.

5. Dexter

The early 1900s saw the introduction of Dexter cattle to the United States from southern Ireland. With full-grown bulls weighing less than 1,000 pounds, they are one of the tiniest kinds of cattle. They require less grass and feed than larger breeds because of their smaller size. They are renowned for being gentle and easy to handle, and they flourish in both hot and cold climes. Dexters are easy to calve and have a high reproductive rate.

Moreover, these black cattle breeds can also be reared to provide both milk and meat. They are the breed that can produce the most milk per pound of weight, and their milk may create up to a quart of cream every gallon. Their small slices are lean and graded choice, and their beef is a somewhat darker red than that of other breeds.

6. Black Baldy Cattle

A variety of cross-bred beef cattle known as a “Black Baldy” is created by mating Hereford cattle with a solid black breed, typically an Aberdeen Angus. Additionally, Hereford heifers are bred to Angus bulls to have smaller calves and less dystocia.

Given that it was only created at the beginning of the 20th century, the Black Baldy is a fairly recent breed. They have, though, rapidly risen to become one of the most well-liked beef breeds in North America. Black Baldies are regarded for their premium, juicy, and tasty meat. Additionally, they are renowned for being docile, which makes them simple to handle and collaborate with.

7. Brangus Cattle

The Brangus, a black Angus-Brahman cross, was developed in the 1930s in the United States. It’s frequently employed in commercial herds because of its reputation for producing high-quality beef. However, because of their huge udders and abundant milk production, Brangus cattle are also suitable for dairy farming, where using dairy management software can optimize the productivity and health of these versatile cattle.

Ranchers frequently choose Brangus because of its hardiness and resistance to disease. It is also renowned for being docile, which makes it simpler to manage than certain other breeds of cattle.

8. Girolando

The Gir and Holstein black cattle breeds were crossed to create the Girolando. With the ability to produce up to 12,000 litres of milk annually, it is regarded as one of the best milking cows in the world. This breed is renowned for both its high reproductive rates and superb mother instincts. Dairy farmers in various nations, including Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina, choose the Girolando.

9. Herens Cattle Breed

One of the most popular black cow breeds in the world is the Herens. The Herens breed, which is believed to be a decedent of the old Celtic cattle breed, was first mentioned in written records in the year 1224.

The unusual black and white markings on the Herens breed, which are supposed to be the result of a genetic mutation, are well-known. The Herens cattle breed is mostly used for the production of meat, while it is also occasionally used for dairy products.

10. Simmental

The Middle Ages are when the Simmental cattle breed first appeared. Simmental cattle are believed to have originated from a mix between huge German cattle and a lesser breed that was native to Switzerland, according to early records. Simmental cattle can also be seen in brown and red, but numerous of these animals are all-black.

Simmental cattle are original of Swiss heritage. It evolved over a very long period to become the big cows and bulls they are now. Although these cows are well known for their milk production, they are also raised for meat in the US.

Expert Advice on How to Improve the Ranch of Black Cattle Breeds?

Gregory Lenzo – CFO IBR

Having worked as the Chief Financial Officer for IBR for the last 5+ years, I believe that there are three basic questions that should be considered when improving your black cattle ranch.

1. How can ranch owners improve the breeding process for black cattle breeds?

There are a few things that ranch owners can do to improve the breeding process for black cattle breeds. One is to make sure that they have a good understanding of the breed they are working with and the characteristics that are important for that breed. Another is to make sure that they have a good breeding program in place, with a focus on improving the quality of their cattle. Ranch owners should also be aware of the challenges that they may face in breeding black cattle and be prepared to deal with them.

2. What are some of the key factors to consider when breeding black cattle?

There are a few key factors to consider when breeding black cattle. One is the importance of selecting the right bulls for the job. Another is the importance of ensuring that the cows are in good condition and are able to conceive and carry a calf to term. Ranch owners should also be aware of the importance of good nutrition and management during the breeding process.

3. What are some of the common challenges that ranch owners face when breeding black cattle?

There are a few common challenges that ranch owners face when breeding black cattle. One is the fact that black cattle can be more difficult to breed than other breeds. Another is the fact that black cattle are more prone to calving problems. Ranch owners should also be prepared to deal with the fact that black cattle may be less popular than other breeds and may be harder to sell.

Conclusion

As amazing as it may sound, black cattle are the offspring of two distinct cattle breeds. So in case you wish to add a black cattle breed to your herd, many options have been discussed above to help you choose. Depending on where you live and what you may need them for, there is a breed that would work well for you and there are many benefits to doing so that could prove rather fruitful even for a new farmer.

You could also adopt Cattle Management Software that could equip you with just the right amount of visibility and control over your cattle, which will help your farm run smoothly without any hassle.

FAQs:

Q1: What breed of cattle is black?

A few black cow breeds are Australian Lowline, Belted Galloway, Welsh Black Cattle, Black Angus, Dexter, Black Baldy Cattle, Brangus Cattle, Girolando, Herens Cattle Breed, and Simmental.

Q2: What are the 4 types of cattle?

• Heifers
• Caves
• Bulls
• Cows