Overview

The light-colored Charolais originated in France, where it was used for meat, milk, and drafting.

Details

The animals' large size and sturdy frame gave them the power to work in fields and pull wagons. The first Charolais came into the U.S. by way of Mexico in the 1930s. Because of a disease outbreak in Mexico, the breed was not allowed to be imported to North America until 1965. Therefore, many of today's American Charolais have other breeds in their lineage as well. Charolais do well under a variety of environmental conditions. They graze aggressively in warm weather, withstand the cold, and have heavy calves. For this reason, adding a Charolais bull to a herd can improve the size and ruggedness of calves.