Groningen Whiteheaded are typically black in color with a white head
and belly. However, about 5% of the population are red rather
than black. The Groningen's ancestry may be traced to the Middle Ages.
The Groningen originated in what is now the northern sections of the
Netherlands.
Through modern selective breeding practices and
crossbreeding with Holstein and Angeln cattle, the milk yields of these
animals have increased but are still lower than those of other Dutch
breeds. Cows stand 132 cm and weigh 600 kg. Milk production averages
5,068 kg at 4% fat per lactation.
Reference:
Genus Bos: Cattle Breeds of the World, 1985,
MSO-AGVET (Merck & Co., Inc.), Rahway, N.J.
Mason, I.L. 1996. A World Dictionary of Livestock
Breeds, Types and Varieties. Fourth Edition. C.A.B International.
273 pp.
Photographs:
D. Nijenhuis, Manager B.R.S., Oude Zeedijk
3, 9968 TA Pieterburen, The Netherlands, Phone: +31.595.52832
