Asturian Valley cattle farming is popular, especially in it’s native area. It is a dual-purpose breed of domestic cattle, which is raised and valued for both meat and milk production purposes. It is a pretty common breed in Spain.
The Asturian Valley cattle breed originated from the valleys of Asturias, Spain and belongs to an exclusive bovine group in Spain known as the tronco Cantábrico (‘Cantabric trunk’). And the group tronco Cantábrico includes only the breeds native to the northern Spain.
The Asturian Valley cattle are also known by some other names such as Asturiana Occidental, Asturiana de los Valles and Carreñana.The Asturian Valley cattle maintain the largest number of this group.
Today, the Asturian Valley cattle breed is mostly raised in the northern coastal areas on the By of Biscay, and the river valleys at the foot of the Cordillera Cantábrica mountain range.
The Asturian Valley cattle breed was used for milk and meat production traditionally, and also used for draught work purposes. But their importance as dairy cattle breed has reduced since other highly productive dairy cattle breeds have been introduced to Spain.
The Asturian Valley cattle was the most abundant breed in the northern part of the country during the 19th Century. But a massive invasion of the highly productive foreign breeds dangerously lowered their total numbers at the beginning of the 20th century to about 22,000 animals only.
Today, the breed is spread to some other parts of Spain, although once again they are most prominent in the northern areas.
However, as these animals are dual-purpose animals, so starting commercial Asturian Valley cattle farming will be a profitable business. Because they are good for both meat and milk production purposes.
How to Start Asturian Valley Cattle Farming
Starting commercial Asturian Valley cattle farming is very easy and simple. Because these animals are very strong and hardy, and they are well adapted to their local climates.
Here we are trying to describe more information about starting and operating a successful Asturian Valley cattle farming business from purchasing animals to caring and marketing.
Purchase Cattle
Purchasing very good quality, healthy, active and diseases free animals is very important for starting and operating your Asturian Valley cattle farming business. Purchasing good quality animals is very important, because good quality animals ensure good production and maximum profits.
You can purchase the animals from any of your nearest livestock market or any existing Asturian Valley cattle farms. Just ensure that the animals are of good quality, healthy, active and diseases free.
Housing
Making a very good, secure and comfortable housing system is another important part of Asturian Valley cattle farming business. Because a good house not only helps the animals to stay healthy, but also helps them to stay free from adverse weather conditions and wild predators.
Type of the house can be any depending on your budget, and also on the availability of building materials in your area. The house can be of full concrete setup. Or you can build the house with low cost and easily available materials. Just ensure that the house is safe and comfortable for the animals.
The Asturian Valley cattle are classified as medium sized animals. So, they will require much space inside the house. So, ensure availability of adequate space inside the house depending on the number of your animals.
Try to make the house in such a way so that you can easily clean the house. Install good ventilation system, and ensure flow of sufficient amount of fresh air and light inside the house.
Feeding
Feeding the animals with very good quality, healthy and nutritious food is the most important part of Asturian Valley cattle farming business. Because, good quality and nutritious food not only helps the animals to grow better, but also helps them to stay healthy and produce more.
The Asturian Valley cattle are dual-purpose animals. So, they will require both grains and greens in their diet. Feeding the animals with silage can also be a good option, especially during the dry season.
Like many other domestic animals, the Asturian Valley cattle also require lots of clean and fresh drinking water daily. So, provide your animals with enough clean and fresh drinking water as per their demand. Never feed them contaminated feeds and provide them polluted water.
Breeding
The Asturian Valley cattle are naturally very good breeders, just like many other domestic cattle breeds. They will breed easily if you keep good ratio of bulls and cows in your herd. You can also consider artificial insemination method for breeding your animals.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is the most important part of Asturian Valley cattle farming business. Because good caring always ensure good growth and also good health of the animals. De-worm and vaccinate your animals timely, and try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
Marketing
Marketing cattle products is not a problem. Because both meat and milk of cattle already have very good demand and value in the market. So, you will probably be able to easily sell your products in the local market. Although, you should set your marketing strategies before starting this business.
These are the common ways and steps for starting and operating a successful Asturian Valley cattle farming business. Hope this guide has helped you! Good luck & may God bless you!
