Charolais cattle facts for kids
Cow and calf
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| Conservation status | FAO (2007): not at risk |
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| Other names | French: Charolaise |
| Country of origin | France |
| Distribution | world-wide |
| Use | beef |
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| Weight |
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| Height |
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| Coat | white [2] |
| Horn status | horned in both sexes |
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The Charolais (pronounced Shar-oh-LAY) is a famous type of cow from France. It is a breed of beef cattle, meaning it is raised mainly for its meat.
This breed gets its name from the Charolais area in eastern France. This region is near the town of Charolles in the Saône-et-Loire area. Charolais cattle are often crossed with other breeds, like Angus and Hereford cattle, to create new types of beef cattle.
Contents
Where Do Charolais Cattle Come From?
The Charolais breed started in France. It is now the most common beef cattle breed in that country. In fact, it is the second most common cattle breed overall in France, after the Holstein.
Charolais cattle are known all over the world. Many countries, including the Czech Republic and Mexico, have large numbers of them. The breed was first brought to the southern United States from Mexico in 1934.
The Charolais-Brionnais Country in France is trying to get special recognition from UNESCO. They want to protect this area as a World Heritage Site. This would help keep the traditions of raising Charolais cattle alive.
What Do Charolais Cattle Look Like?
Charolais cattle are among the largest and heaviest cattle breeds.
- Male Charolais, called bulls, can weigh from 1,000 to 1,650 kilograms (about 2,200 to 3,600 pounds).
- Female Charolais, called cows, weigh from 700 to 1,200 kilograms (about 1,500 to 2,600 pounds).
Their coat, or hair, is usually white or a creamy color. They also have a pink nose. Both male and female Charolais cattle have horns.
What Are They Used For?
Charolais cattle are mainly raised for their meat. They are known for growing quickly and producing a lot of high-quality beef.
Sometimes, Charolais are bred with other cattle to create new breeds.
- The Charbray is a mix of Charolais and Brahman cattle.
- The Brazilian Canchim breed is made up of 5/8 Charolais and 3/8 Indu-Brasil cattle.
- Other mixed breeds include Charford and Char-Swiss, which were developed in the United States.
See also
In Spanish: Charolesa para niños
