What is Galloway Cattle? What are Its Characteristics?
Galloway cattle is a breed native to southwestern Scotland. The name Galloway comes from an old kingdom or lordship located in southwestern Scotland. The word 'Galloway' is derived from the word Gallovid or Gall. It has held a special position among beef cattle since the 18th century. This breed has been raised on a large scale in Canada and the USA since the middle of the 19th century. Hybrids of the Galloway breed are raised in regions such as South America, Africa, and New Zealand. Purebred Galloway cattle are found in Scotland and Russia. The Galloway cattle breed is a famous cattle breed, especially of Scottish origin, standing out with its beef character. Polled variations of Hereford cattleare produced using male cattle belonging to the Galloway breed. This breed is extremely docile and courageous; they can unite and attack predators to prevent attacks on their calves. Even if only a few Galloways are in a sheep flock, they exhibit the same behavior, creating a safer environment for the sheep. Galloway is a breed known for its maternal characteristics. Cows give birth easily, while calves are robust, energetic, and possess the "will to live" to stand up quickly and start suckling. Galloway is a long-lived breed. Many Galloway cattle have the ability to reproduce regularly in and after their adolescence.
Characteristics of Galloway Cattle
Appearance characteristics of Galloway cattle
Medium-sized, polled (hornless), and has long hair.
It has white belts on black, reddish, yellowish, and black color tones.
Among purebred breeds, those with white belts on black are noteworthy.
Extremely resistant to harsh conditions.
Has a calm character.
Has a long lifespan (20 years).
Prefers living in wide meadows rather than enclosed areas. It feeds on natural food throughout the year.
Extremely resistant to diseases and generally does not experience health problems.
Maternal instinct is developed.
Estrus and fertility characteristics are high; it definitely produces offspring every year.
Animals more suitable for open-air feeding.
Naturally low-fat, but well-marbled, high omega 3 content
Yield characteristics of Galloway cattle
Body structure: Wither height around 140 cm in males; 130 cm in females.
Live Weight: Around 850 kg in males; 550 kg in females.
Calf birth weight: Around 30 kg in males; 27 kg in females.
Is Galloway meat delicious?
The taste of Galloway beef is generally described as juicy, tender, and flavorful. Galloway cattle are known for their ability to produce good fat marbling, which contributes to the tenderness and rich flavor of the meat. The meat is naturally low in fat but provides a good balance of fat marbling, resulting in a juicy texture. The grass-feeding of Galloway cattle also affects the taste and adds a unique and desirable flavor profile to the meat. Overall, Galloway beef is appreciated for its quality and unique taste.
How many kilos of milk does a Galloway cow give?
Galloway cows can produce approximately 5 gallons of milk per day. These cows can continue to produce milk even when they are over ten years old, and their milk is excellent for making butter and cheese.
What is the body type of Galloway cattle?
Galloway's robust body exhibits a straight topline, sturdy, well-boned legs, a medium neck, and a rounded appearance. Although Galloway initially emerged as both a dairy and beef breed, today the body type of the breed leans more towards beef characteristics. Adult Galloway cattle reach heights ranging between 140 cm for males and 130 cm for females, and weigh approximately 850 kg for males and 550 kg for females.
What is the face of Galloway cattle like?
Galloway cattle are hornless, which is why this breed is called "polled". Galloway cattle have a distinct head structure with a broad face, large eyes, and a square muzzle. Their wide, furry ears are covered with long hair, protecting them against weather conditions.
What is the coat color of Galloway cattle?
The most common color of Galloway's thick coat is brownish black, but there is also a wide range of colors ranging from smoky, red, belted, and white with black points. The belted one has a white belt around the middle of the cattle. The white one has very distinct black points around the eyes, ears, and nose. Galloway has a two-layered thick coat. The long, coarse outer layer provides protection from rain and wind. The undercoat protects the temperature of the cattle with soft, thick, and dense hair. The desirable soft wavy coat is not harsh like bristles. The weather-resistant coat provides protection against harsh elements and eliminates the need for extra fat.
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