Limousin
in Canada
The Limousin movement in Canada began in 1968 with the first imports
from France. The popularity of the breed spread quickly when performance
testing in Canada proved their worth to the industry. Many more importation’s
followed as well as an extensive grading up program. The early years
of testing through extensive government programs re-enforced the impressive
breed traits. They proved to have high fertility and the most efficient
production record of all the French breeds. An easy calving record
with the smallest average birth weight of all the continental breeds,
was one of the traits readily accepted as well as outstanding mothering
ability and good milk production.Limousin Today
Today, Limousin is one of the largest breeds in the world for beef
production, and one of the five major breeds in Canada. Canadians
take great pride in being Limousin seedstock producers, which they
market around the world. In addition to Full French genetics, Canadian
breeders have worked hard over the last 30 years to breed and market
domestic purebreds, which have greater than 90% Limousin blood.
Domestic Purebreds may be the traditional red/gold colour or black,
which exhibit the same Limousin traits but carry the black gene
for coat color. A significant number of Limousin cattle also carry
the polled gene, which is a convenience trait but an important one
for many markets. The Canadian Limousin Association carries the
only Full French Limousin herdbook in the world that guarantees
every single registered animal is parent verified by blood typing
or DNA genotyping. This displays integrity and commitment on the
part of our breeders and the association.
Limousin's Role in the Commercial Industry
Market share continues to increase for Limousin genetics. Most progressive
commercial producers use multiple breeds utilizing heterosis to
increase both performance and profitability. Limousin genetics compliment
all breed types in crossbreeding programs. Limousin bulls add muscle
and uniformity to their progeny and these cattle have exceptional
feed conversion in the feedlot. Maybe the biggest advantage is demonstrated
in the packing plant with the highest yielding carcass of any breed.
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