Avilena

Cattle

Its geographical core coincides with "Sistema Central" the mountain range of the center of Spain. Avileña-Negra Iberica herds can be also found in the "Sistema Ibérico", "Sierra Morena", "Sierra de la Demanda" mountain ranges among others. During winter season, it is also traditionally located in "dehesa" forest of Castilla la Mancha, Castilla Leon, Extremadura and Madrid. Avileña-(Negra Ibérica) breed is a medium size breed with a marked sexual dimorphism. Its adult weight varies between 500 to 600 kilograms in the case of females and from 800 to 1000 kg in males. Is typical of this breed its uniform black coat being admitted white snout. Animals with this feature are scarce and considered an endangered breed variety. Traditionally, Avileña-(Negra Iberica) cattle was use for transport and agricultural labor, but meat production was also important. Milk production has been mainly a secondary use for familial consumption. Although the first herds used in beef production appeared at the beginning of the past century, its use as a draught animal has persisted through the 1970’s.

(various sources greatly appreciated but primarily http://www.regionalcattlebreeds.eu)