Jamaica Hope

Also Known As: Jersey-Zebu, Montgomery-Jersey

The Hope Farm began, in 1910, to develop a breed of dairy cattle adapted to the climate of the island. The exact breeds used over the next several years to develop the Jamaica Hope is a complex mix as over twelve breed were tried. However, the current breed is approximately 80% Jersey, 15% zebu (primarily from a single Sahiwal bull) and 5% Holstein.

The Jamaica Hope comprises approximately 80% of the cattle on the island. Mature cows average 2500 kg per lactation and weigh about 500 kg (1100 pounds). Males usually weight between 700 and 800 kg (1500 - 1800 lbs).

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:

R. E. McDowell, Professor Emeritus of International Animal Science, Cornell University, and provided by Paul O. Brackelsberg, Professor of Animal Science, Iowa State University

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Added January 28, 1997