The Ancient Irish Kerry Cow at Colpitts Ranches

The Kerry is a rare and ancient breed of cattle that have inhabited Ireland for at least 3000 years. Certainly Europe's oldest dairy breed, Kerry cows are black, light-bodied and gracefully feminine. They are well respected for being thrifty converters of coarse forage - in accord with centuries grazing on the rough heather hills of Erie.
Referred to as "the poor man's milch cow" by the Irish or as "The Emerald Blackskins" by British fanciers in the eighteenth century, their rugged nature owes much to a coat that shines "in summer like satin, in winter long and thick". Compared to modern breeds their longevity is remarakable. A cow can be expected to to raise as many as 15 calves in a lifetime.