Charolais cattle

Charolais
Cow and calf
Conservation statusFAO (2007): not at risk:144
Other namesFrench: Charolaise
Country of originFrance
DistributionWorldwide
UseBeef
Traits
Weight
  • Male:
    1000–1650 kg:153
  • Female:
    700–1200 kg:153
Height
  • 135–150 cm:153
CoatWhite [2]
Horn statusHorned in both sexes
  • Cattle
  • Bos (primigenius) taurus

The Charolais (French: [ʃaʁɔlɛ]) or Charolaise ([ʃaʁɔlɛz]) is a French breed of taurine beef cattle. It originates in, and is named for, the Charolais area surrounding Charolles, in the Saône-et-Loire department, in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of eastern France.

Charolais are raised for meat, which is relatively lower in fat. The breed is also selected for hardiness and docility. They may be crossed with other breeds for desired characteristics. Common crossbreeds include Angus and Hereford cattle.