Cattle
Like so many other species, heritage cattle have not competed well with the highly productive Holstein and many of the European beef breeds. Many are small in stature, for instance the Kerry, Dexter and Highland.
However, the older rustic breeds are long lived, (Robert Lynch was milking 20+-year-old Lynch Lineback cows). They are easy to keep and provide specialty milk and beef products appreciated more and more by food lovers.
Farmers like the older breeds too: they do well on marginal feed, can be kept out doors all year round, are easy to handle and provide smaller, leaner cuts.
Supporting Articles:
Genetic Diversity in Dairy Breeds in Canada
Ted Lawrence, Cattle Coordinator
email: ted@storm.ca
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