Jersey Cow

Historical records indicate that Jersey cattle were used domestically for meat production and dairy as far back as 1700. Originally from the Island of Jersey located off the west coast of France, the Jersey was imported to Canada in 1868. This breed of livestock distinguished by its production of high butterfat milk, has also been established throughout the world in places such as: Australia, South Africa, South American, India and Japan.

Although the Canadian dairy industry is dominated (over 95%) by Holsteins, Jerseys are highly economical, producing on average ten times their body weight in milk per year. In addition to being the smallest of the dairy cattle breeds in Canada, Jersey cows are of particular importance to the production of high quality butter and cheeses.