AYRSHIRE CATTLE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 18 July 1938, Page 3

AYRSHIRE CATTLE

PROGRESS IN AMERICA. The Ayrshire Breeders’ Association of America in its recent report on the progress of the Ayrshire in America, states that substantial advances were made by the breed during the year 1937. The large number of Ayrshires registered gives the Ayrshire the distinction of being the fastest growing dairy breed in America during the last 10 years. Official figures show that the number of Ayrshires registered in 1937 was about 185 per cent of those registered in 1935, while only one other breed showed a gain above 150 per cent. With nearly 5000 cows enrolled in the Herd Test and Advanced Registry, and an additional 8000 testing in dairy herd improvement associations. Ayrshire breeders with a total of 13,000 cows, led all breeds during 1937 with the highest percentage of cows on test. The steadily growing number of great lifetime record performers for which the breed is noted was increased during 1937 to 128 individuals with 100,0001 b or more of milk, and 40001 b or more fat to

their credit. The number of cows in the breed with lifetime records of 50001 b fat was increased to 27, while a total of seven crossed the 60001 b mark. The fact that the undefeated grand champion female, Alfalfa Farm Ann 2nd was the winner of the New England Milking Derby, attracted favourable attention to the Ayrshire breed. The uniform high production of Ayrshires in large herds was well demonstrated during the year by the Fillmore Farms, whose 152 head made 10,1701 b milk, 4.04 average test, and 4111 b fat. The ability of the Ayrshire to give the maximum production of high quality milk at a reasonable feed cost basis has been largely responsible for then- popularity in the vicinity of fluid milk markets.