232 



THE CATTLE OP GREAT BRITAIN. 



As our article may possibly lead to the Guernsey cattle 

 being even more than ever in request, we will just observe 

 that purchasers in England must not be too hasty in con- 

 demning us or the Guernseys if they do not find the cattle at 

 once turning out all that we have described. In this matter, 

 like all others, a fair trial is necessary. With cows and heifers 

 especially, the change of climate and pasture may have a 

 checking effect at first; but, as they become naturalised to 

 their new home, they will soon prove themselves true to the 

 character they have so long and so justly borne. 



In the management of Guernsey cows the islanders make it 

 a special study to supply that kind of food, and otherwise 

 subject the animals to that method of treatment, which tends 

 to promote good milking qualities. Flesh-making is quite a 

 secondary consideration with them, so long as good quantity 

 and quality of milk and butter are forthcoming. 



They have their special treatment for special seasons. For 

 instance, in spring and summer the cows are fed on clover, 

 lucerne, and grass, care being taken that neither is of too 

 mature a growth, and that only a given quantity of each is 

 supplied. Clover and grass, when not too ripe, produce abun- 

 dance of milk ; lucerne also is beneficial, but not in too great 

 quantity, otherwise it is apt to kill the delicate flavour of the 

 butter. If these foods are supplied in too ripe condition they 

 tend to make flesh instead of increasing the milk. 



Those who take pains with their cattle are careful that the 

 cows feed when the sun is shining, and place them in the shade 

 as soon as a sufficient quantity of food has been taken, as 

 allowing them to remain in the heat after feeding tends to 

 reduce milk. 



In winter the cows are fed on hay, straw, carrots, turnips, 

 and mangold wurzel. The greatest quantity of milk is pro- 

 duced from food in the following ratio : first, carrots ; second, 

 common turnips ; third, mangold wurzel. Other roots, such as 

 parsnips and Swede turnips, are avoided where practicable, 

 inasmuch as they produce flesh rather than milk. Care is also 

 observed by those who take pride in their cattle to house them 

 at night and in rough weather, allowing them open air and 

 exercise only when the sky is clear. 



