The Burlina cattle is a breed of cattle from the mountainous areas of the Veneto region of northeast Italy. It is distributed mainly in the provinces of Treviso, Verona and Vicenza. The Burlina are primarily raised for milk production but they are also used as beef cattle. They were first bred in the 1970s by crossing Brown Swiss cows with Chianina bulls.
There are very few pure specimens justify in the provinces of Treviso, Vicenza and Verona. In 1930, its number reached 15.000 head of cattle of this breed. Already for the entrance of the first and second world wars, the number of these species was reducing. For the 1950s the population of this breed was 11.000. And by the end of 2010, there was only 300 head of cattle of this species. The Burlina race was officially recognized in 1980 when the Register of Autochthonous Breeds was established.
Characteristic of Burlina Cattle
Burlina cattle is a resistant breed able to survive in temperate climates and climates with heavy rainfall. The cloak is black brindle, with black covering most of the body. A white star on the forehead is characteristic, although some white spots may appear on the back and sides. This color is always irregularly distributed in the belly, legs and tail. While the hair is short, thin and shiny. You may also like to read Shorthorn Cattle.
The head is of medium length and concave between the orbital arcs. The nose is large and is surrounded by an irregular spot of white hair. Also, the horns open outward, but bend forward in the male and upward in the female. In addition, the horns in both the male and the female when they are young are black.
But over the years they take on a yellowish color with black pythons, and they have a black tip. The body is long and the back is narrow. Also, the lumbar region is well-formed and the hindquarters are rectangular but descend in decline from the spine. The ribs are well arch but the depth of the body is variable.
While the udder is the good shape, globular, with relatively large nipples, and is cover by fine, soft hair. While The breed is raised primarily for its milk. This breed yields an average yield of 2.500 kilograms per year for mountain cows. As regards the cows in the plains, the annual yield is 2.500 to 3.000 kilograms. The bulls measure around 160 centimeters and the weight is around 750 kg. While the cows of this species reach 140 centimeters and the weight is between 550 kg.
Usage
Although the Burlina Cattle breed is a double-fitness breed, it is highly prized for the quality of its milk. Even as the diet of this breed is based on grass and grazing, the milk has a very characteristic flavor. That is why the milk of this breed is used for the production of Morocco cheese. You may also like to read Galloway Cattle.
Food
Burlina Cattle is a breed prized by breeders. And this is because maintenance costs are low. The feeding of this race is done with grazing and can feed on normal pastures even in very precarious areas with little grass. In the same way, it can feed in mountainous areas. In summer breeders prefer to keep this breed with grazing. But in times of winter, they are kept in stables, and their diet is base on hay, herbs and cereals.
Special Feature
There is a sustained tendency to subject Burlina cattle to absorption crossings with Brown Swiss or Friesian cattle. Burlina Cattle is a breed that is resistant to both sudden changes in climate and different diseases. In addition, this breed is strong against tuberculosis.
Because this breed has a good immune system it is not necessary to use antibiotics. And because of this the milk of this breed is produced with good quality. Another characteristic for which it is valued is this breed is by its natural instinct to be a mother. You may also like to read Ayrshire Cow.
FAQ
What are the characteristics of Burlina cattle?
Burlina cattle are a breed of rustic, dual-purpose animals native to the region of Veneto in Italy. Developed since 1800, they are medium-sized with characteristic black and white spots over their entire body that give them their distinct appearance.
Which is the world best milking cow?
The world’s best milking cow not only depends on its breed but also many other factors such as age, health, and diet. Generally speaking, some of the most popular breeds for dairy production are Holstein-Friesian cows, Jersey cows, Ayrshire cows and Guernseys. In terms of production quantity per lactation cycle (between 305 days) the highest yielding cows are usually Holsteins which average around 12000 kg or 26500 lbs of milk.
What are the three types of cattle?
Cattle are a type of large domesticated grazing animals that are raised for their meat, milk, and labor. There are three primary types of cattle—dairy, beef and dual-purpose—and many subtypes within each category.
Conclusion
The Burlina is a dual-purpose breed, but it’s raised principally for milk production. It was developed at the end of the nineteenth century by crossing native Italian stock with Jersey cattle and Shorthorn breeds from England. This guide has helped you learn more about this beautiful breed of cattle! Good luck in your search for your next animal to add to your herd!
As a reference: Wikipedia
