A breed that symbolizes robustness and adaptability.

Prized for its meat, this breed is now mainly classified as a meat-producing breed.

Originating in the Cantal region, in the canton of Salers, as its name suggests, this breed of mahogany-colored cows (with black stalks), recognizable by their fine lyre-shaped flared horns, is acclaimed for its hardiness and its ability to combine maternal qualities with beefy aptitudes. The Salers breed was initially developed in “traditional” systems, where milk production for cheese-making and grazer production for meat were combined. It now has two genetic branches: a milk branch (4% of the Salers cow population) and a meat branch (96%).

Production

Although traditional Salers milking production is declining due to the need for on-call work, this mixed breed has the particularity of producing very rich milk with excellent cheesability (MG/MP ratio = 1.2), which is highly prized for the production of cheeses with quality labels, in particular those with PDO status: Salers Tradition, Cantal and Saint-Nectaire. Nevertheless, the Salers is a very attractive breed for any breeder wishing to produce meat, thanks in particular to its exceptional productivity. It combines fertility, fecundity and calving aptitude (very good pelvic openings), which are 3 fundamental criteria for controlling the herd’s calving-to-calving interval. Its high-quality milk also ensures excellent calf growth without pre-weaning feed supplementation. It is ideally suited to crossbreeding with other breeds, notably the Charolais. The Salers breed is also renowned for the taste of its meat (red color, fine grain and good marbling) and its ability to fatten up quickly. Its physical and physiological characteristics make it well-suited to difficult environments, in particular its good feed intake, black hooves, very good legs and coat color. As a result, it is a breed that adapts very well to different soil and climate conditions (without being affected by temperature variations) and farming systems (extensive grass-feeding or stabling) in France and abroad, without any impact on its production results.

Features

The genetic features of the Salers breed are an asset, with good natural resistance to disease and varied climatic conditions. This translates into lower veterinary costs and ease of breeding. Salers cows also have an excellent reputation for their maternal capacity and calving ease, essential traits for reproduction and herd longevity.

Morphology

The Salers breed’s morphology is adapted to rugged terrain and variable climates, with strong bones and well-developed muscles that contribute to its working capacity and longevity. Their robust physique enables them to cover long distances to graze, a valuable feature in mountainous regions.

Longevity and Health

Salers bulls are renowned for their longevity, often associated with good general health, enabling the animals to remain productive for longer. This is advantageous for breeders, as it means that the animals can contribute for many years to meat and milk production, as well as reproduction.

Functional features

In terms of functional characteristics, the Salers is characterized by its calm temperament and ease of management. Bulls and cows of this breed are cooperative during milking and handling operations, reducing stress for animals and breeders alike. What’s more, their ability to adapt to a variety of farming systems makes them a particularly versatile breed. It is found in mountainous areas (for its hardiness), and has been exported to Ireland, non-EU countries, England, Spain, Portugal and Belgium,

The Salers breed embodies durability and versatility. Its genetic qualities ensure not only quality production, but also ease of breeding and adaptation to changing farming practices, making it a valuable choice for breeders worldwide.