Limousin History Origin Of The Breed The Limousin breed originated in the rugged, granite type country region of France where the summers are hot and winters are severe. The history of the Limousin goes back more than 7,000 years to an area surrounding the French city of Limoges were rough cave paintings showing the characteristics of the breed have been discovered and carbon dated. The Limousin herd book was established in 1886. The first Limousin cross calf in Australia was born in 1973 and the first full blood Limousin was imported in 1975. Today the Limousin breed can be found in more than fifty countries from the northern most herds of Finland and the Commonwealth of Soviet States to Countries such as Cuba, South Africa and China. Breed Characteristics The Limousin is a rich gold colour, with lighter circles around the eye and muzzle, and shading to a lighter colour on the legs. Limousins can also be black as a result of grading up from black cattle in Australia. These however are not French Pure Limousin. The head is small and short with a broad forehead, and the neck is short. All French Pure Limousin are naturally horned. In Australia polled Limousin have been developed. Most horned Limousin are dehorned at a young age. The Limousin is intermediate in size and maturity between British breeds and most other European Breeds. Hardiness Limousin cattle adapt to diverse climates and the widest range of management systems, from the top end of the Northern Territory to the highlands of Central Tasmania. Ease of Calving Limousin calves have low birth weights, which lead to minimum calving problems when Limousin bulls are used over cows of other breeds. High Dressing Percentage Limousin crossbred steers and heifers have high dressing percentages of 58 - 63 percent compared to an average of 53 - 58 percent. High Yield High meat to bone ratios and low fat leads to outstanding yields of saleable meat from Limousin cross carcases. Yields of up to 80% of saleable meat are not uncommon. Tender Healthy Beef Limousin meat is finely textured, tender and low in saturated fats and cholesterol. It is genetically trimmed. Efficiency Limousin cattle are efficient - they have moderate mature size and are excellent foragers walking long distances for food. They also have above average feed conversion rates. Genetic Strength The Limousin stamps its characteristics on other breeds when used in crossbreeding programs, especially its superior carcase characteristics.