Wisconsin Animal

This also lead to the designation of the state beverage, milk. Wisconsin has been a leader in the nation's milk production for many years. Agriculture remains an important part of Wisconsin's economy.

Dairy cows come in different sizes and shapes. Those having the same size, shape, color, temperament, and abilities are classed by breed. The major US dairy breeds are Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein, Jersey, and Milking Shorthorn. The largest dairy breed in terms of number of cows is the Holstein.

Dairy cattle have to grow up just like people do. A dairy cow doesn't produce milk until she has a calf. She is about two years old when she has her first calf. Dairy farmers like for cows to have a calf every 12 to 14 months.

The miracle of life unfolds many times per month on most dairy farms. On average, a cow gives birth to a calf every 13 or 14 months, and this begins a new lactation or milking cycle. A cow is normally milked for about 11 or 12 months and then the "mother in waiting" has a period of about 2 months before her new calf is born during which she is not milked. This gives her body a time of rest to prepare itself for the next lactation cycle, which starts as soon as the calf is born.

See Moo Milk