What is a Lakenvelder cow? (Dutch Belted)
The Lakenvelder (English: Dutch Belted) is a truly Dutch breed of cow that can be recognized, among other things, by its characteristic cowhide featuring a white band (also called the “laken”) that runs across the animal’s back and belly. The “laken” is always white; aside from the white “laken,” the Lakenvelder is black or red in color. The majority of Lakenvelders are black and white.
What are the characteristics of the Lakenvelder cow?
Lakenvelder cows have a friendly disposition and are therefore often found on hobby farms, petting zoos, and therapeutic farms. The breed is also becoming increasingly popular in natural grazing projects. The advantage of these cattle is that they are almost entirely low-maintenance, calve easily, can thrive on poorer pastures, and do not require concentrated feed. When a calf is born, it weighs about 30 kilograms. An adult bull weighs about 600 to 900 kilograms, and an adult cow weighs about 400 to 700 kilograms.
As a true dairy breed, Lakenvelders can produce up to 9,000 kilograms of milk per year. The fat globules in the milk are naturally very small, making the milk easily digestible and easier to homogenize. (During homogenization, milk is forced through very small openings to prevent the fat from rising to the top.)
The History of the Lakenvelder Cow
As early as the 12th century, the Lakenvelder breed was already roaming the Dutch countryside. In the painting “The Adoration of the Child” (dating from around 1450), a Lakenvelder is depicted by the artist Hieronymus Bosch. This is the earliest known depiction of a Lakenvelder. For centuries, the Lakenvelder breed was bred and raised by the Dutch; however, this prized livestock was not readily sold.
Around the 19th century, the Lakenvelder became popular primarily among the upper classes. These animals were kept for their unique markings. The nickname “Parkrund,” as the Lakenvelder is also known, dates back to this period.
In 1950 the breed was seriously threatened with extinction. In this year a cattle regulation was issued, which meant that only bulls recognized by the studbook could be used for breeding. However, this studbook had been abolished earlier in 1931. There were about five herds left.
Although the Lakenvelder is still a rare breed, its numbers are gradually increasing. There are now approximately 3,000 animals worldwide.
Lakenvelder Cattle Association (VLR)
In 1979, a breeders’ club was founded specifically for Lakenvelders. This club was renamed the Lakenvelder Cattle Association in 1997. The primary goal of this association is to preserve the Lakenvelder breed in the Netherlands and beyond.
Once a year, a special Lakenvelder Day is organized, also known as “The Day of the Lakenvelder.” On this day, several breeders open their farms to the public.
More cow breeds: Groninger Blaarkop, Belgian Blue, Scottish Highland, Holstein Friesian, or view all cow breeds.