The Blonde d’Aquitaine breed was developed in the Aquitaine region of southwest France, and is one of the fastest growing beef cattle breeds internationally. Its growing popularity is the result of an array of breed characteristics that make Blondes ideally suited for use as terminal sires.
Low birth weight and ease of calving are the rule. Blonde babies are long and thin, with very low assisted calving rates (less than 2% is not unusual).
Rapid growth. Blonde calves muscle out dramatically from 4 to 6 weeks of age, developing the “great butts” that the breed is famous for.
Docile temperament. Blondes are noted for their ease of handling. This translates into lower stress levels, less carcass damage and a safer working environment for the handler.
Heat and cold tolerance. Blondes thrive in a wide range of climatic conditions, seemingly unfazed by sub-zero to 40plus temperatures.
Blondes have a fine bone structure, great muscle development and very low waste. Together with their characteristic length, these traits mean increased demand for Blonde cross carcasses, with female calves often selling for the same price as steers. This is directly reflected in profitability, i.e. “the bottom line”.