Andalusian Black cattle farming is not too popular, even in it’s native area. It is a relatively rare breed which is valued for meat production. But today, the breed is listed as ‘endangered’, and total number of the breed is very less.
The Andalusian Black cattle is a taurine cattle breed, and it was originated in west Andalusia, Spain. It is also known by some other names such as Negra de las Campiñas, Negra Campiñesa and Spanish: Negra Andaluza.
The Andalusian Black cattle is actually a beef cattle breed which is raised primarily for meat production purpose. The breed is found in two main areas of west Andalusia (from Cordova to the foothills of the Sierra Morena), and in the provinces of Seville, Cádiz and Huelva.
Today, total population of the Andalusian Black cattle breed is very less. And there were about 800 purebred cattle in the year of 2007. Total number of this breed decreased mainly for crossbreeding with other local cattle breeds.
Other reasons for declining their total numbers were the mechanization of agriculture, crossbreeding, lack of genetic programs, segmentation and ilosation of subpopulations and unstructured breeding efforts.
But the total population increased to 1883 heads by 2011. Currently, the breed is classified as an endangered breed with only 1415 animals registered with the stud book.
However, commercial Andalusian Black cattle farming can be a profitable business. And at the same time, you can help this breed to increase it’s total population.
How to Start Andalusian Black Cattle Farming
The Andalusian Black cattle are very strong and hardy animals. They are well adapted to their native climates. So, starting commercial Andalusian Black cattle farming business will be relatively easy.
Here we are trying to describe more information about starting and operating a successful Andalusian Black cattle farming business from purchasing animals to caring and marketing.
Purchase Cattle
First of all, you have to purchase very good quality, healthy, active and diseases free animals for starting and operating a successful Andalusian Black cattle farming business. Purchasing very good quality animals is very important, because good quality animals always ensure good production and maximum profits.
You can purchase the animals from any of your nearest livestock market or any existing Andalusian Black cattle farms. You just have to ensure that the animals are very strong, hardy and active.
Housing
Making a good housing system for your animals is very important. Because a good house not only helps the animals to stay healthy, but also helps them to stay free from wild predators and adverse weather conditions.
Exact type of the house can be any depending on your budget, and also on the availability of materials in your area. You can build the house with low cost and easily available materials, or the house can be of full concrete setup. Just ensure that the house is secure, safe and comfortable for the animals.
The Andalusian Black cattle are classed as a medium sized animal. So, they will require much space inside the house. Make the house in such a way so that you can easily clean the house. Install good ventilation system inside the house. And ensure flow of sufficient amount of fresh air and light inside the house.
Feeding
Feeding the animals with very good quality and nutritious feed is the most important part of Andalusian Black cattle farming business. Because good and nutritious food not only helps the animals to stay healthy, but also helps them to grow better and produce more.
The Andalusian Black cattle are beef cattle. So, they will require more grain than other breeds. But providing them with adequate greens is also very important. You can also feed your cattle with silage during the dry periods.
The Andalusian Black cattle also require lots of drinking water daily, like many other domestic cattle breeds. So, provide them with enough clean and fresh drinking water as per their demand. Never feed them with contaminated feeds or polluted water.
Breeding
Like many other domestic cattle breeds, the Andalusian Black cattle are also naturally very good breeders. They will breed easily if you keep good ratio of bulls and cows in your herd. Artificial insemination method can also be a good option for breeding your animals.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important. Actually good caring is the key to successful Andalusian Black cattle farming business. Always try to take good care of your animals. Vaccinate and de-worm them timely. And always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
Marketing
Marketing cattle products is not a problem. Because cattle products have very good demand and value in the market. So you will probably be able to sell your products in the local market. Although, you should set your marketing strategies before starting this business.
These are the common steps and ways for starting and operating a successful Andalusian Black cattle farming business. Hope this guide has helped you! Good luck & may God bless you!
