Belgian Blue cattle originated in Belgium as the product of crossbreeding between local cattle and cattle imported from England in the late 1800s. The breed was only recently formally established with the founding of the Belgian Blue herd book in 1973.
What is the purpose of the Belgian Blue cow?
Internationally the Belgium Blue is used as a terminal sire for meat production. When used as a terminal sire the results show that this breed is easier calving when compared to breeds such as Simmental, Charolais and even Friesian calves born to Friesian cows mated to Friesian bulls.
When was the Belgian Blue created?
History. The breed originated in central and upper Belgium in the 19th century, from crossing local breeds with a Shorthorn breed of cattle from the United Kingdom.
Is the Belgian Blue genetically modified?
Only one media article states that Belgian Blue is genetically modified, while 13% mention that the breed has a genetic defect, and almost all of the articles are very negative to the breed.
How much does a Belgian Blue Cost?
Charolais, Limousin ,Gelbvieh ,Simental and many other breed. Some weaned others still on milk just depends on what you want, Our calves ranges from $360 to $2000 each depending on what you want.
How heavy is a Belgian Blue bull?
Belgian Blue Characteristics Weights and Size: Belgian Blues are a moderately framed breed. Mature females weigh around 780 kg (1700 lbs) and are 138 cm (53 inches) tall. Adult bulls weigh 1200 kg (2700 lbs) and are 155 cm (61 inches) tall.
Why are Belgian Blues so big?
They’re called Belgian blue bulls, and the reason they look so bulky is because of a naturally occurring mutation called “double muscling,” which occurs when the animals lack a certain protein that regulates muscle growth.
What are the advantages of the Belgian Blue?
Extremely lean meat with a dense texture. Of all beef breeds this breed has the least fat (2 to 3 times less fat than another breed) The Belgian Blue has the most unsaturated fatty acids of all cattle breeds. The white-blue of Belgium has the lowest ecological footprint of all cattle breeds.
How long does a cow live?
Cows can live for over 20 years but on commercial farms the age at slaughter varies considerably. Farms with poor management, high- yielding cattle or high disease rates will slaughter their animals at a much younger age, normally after four lactations (around 5-6 years old), but sometimes after 2 or 3.
Do Belgian Blue cattle have horns?
Belgian Blue are white and they are blue-white to grey speckled and brindled black and white on the base color white. Occasionally, they can be red carriers. Polled status: Short, stub horn slightly bent to the fore.