As the name suggests, Montbéliarde cattle originate from the Montbéliarde region of France. To thrive in this mountainous region Montbéliarde cattle need to be hardy. They cope admirably in extreme temperatures at both ends of the scale.
Montbéliarde cattle
Officially registered as a pure breed in the late 1800s, the Montbéliarde is now one of the most popular breeds in France. Montbéliarde cows are renowned for the good quality milk that they produce. Indeed, the milk’s high protein content has been used in the production of cheese for centuries. Today, their milk is often processed into Emmental and Gruyère cheese. (Our team recently sourced Montbéliarde cattle from a herd producing 8500 litres, 4.2 fat and 3.55 protein.)
Montbéliarde cattle characteristics
This red and white pied breed is similar in appearance to the red and white Holstein. Montbéliarde cows typically weigh around 685 kilos, mature bulls 1100-1200 kilos. This hardy breed adapts well to all sorts of rearing systems. (In hot regions it can ingest large quantities of rough forage.)
Montbéliarde cattle are rated highly for their breeding qualities and resistance to mastitis. Fertility rates are high – artificial insemination success rates are good. They also benefit from high calve survival rates.
Montbéliarde beef
The Montbéliarde also has strong beefing ability. Calves and young bulls benefit from rapid growth rates and good conformation. Cows also produce good quality carcasses with no excess fat.
With these qualities it is easy to understand why the Montbéliard has become so popular in France and why this adaptable breed is exported all over the world. This breed can now be found in Africa, South America, the Middle East and all across Europe. If you are interested in buying Montbéliarde cattle, please get in touch.
Montbéliarde cattle for sale and other breeds
David Clarke Livestock supply other dual purpose breeds. These include Danish Red, Fleckvieh, Norwegian Red, Rotbunt and Simmental. Top quality dairy and beef cattle breeds also sourced and delivered.
See our current available livestock.
