What’s the difference?
There are a few key distinguishing factors between Guernsey and Jersey cows. This includes their coats, body, the milk they produce, and even their personality, which we will quickly explain in this article.
History
Both breeds come from very similar locations. They are from neighborings isles, on the English channel, on the coast of France. Take a look at the map and see exactly where the best milk in the world originates!
Guernsey
Guernseys are named after the isle of Guernsey in the channel islands between France and Germany.
Jersey
Jersey’s are related to Guernsey. You can see this by their appearance. They were at one time neighbors- Jersey’s being from the neighboring Jersey Island, between France and Germany.
These cows are not the same. Between personality, weight, and other factors, here are the differences and similarities between the two:
What they look like
Guernsey
Guernsey’s are considered a sub type European blonde cattle. They’re often golden, but can be white or even red, just like the picture below, right on our farm! They generally are brown, but can have spots of white on their body.
They’re wide, have a strong back, and are known for their fair appearance. Their faces are sometimes a pure color, but often have a smoot on their face. Guernsey’s can weigh up to 1,100 pounds, while bulls can weigh 1500.
Jersey
Jersey cows look a lot like guernseys, but their coats are a light tan. Their coats tend to be a solid color.. They have white tones that circle their eyes, nose, and mouth. Sometimes there will be a faded white underneath their body that runs up to their face. Example below. Some jerseys have that sooty face as well.
Jersey’s tend to be a little smaller, yet produce a large amount of milk. When it comes to dairy farming, maybe you want convenience, in which case, personality may be a factor.
Personality
Guernsey
Known as a docile breed, guernseys are often playful and docile. This is a general, not universal truth. But mostly these cows are sweet and slow.
Jersey
Jersey’s tend to be skittish and the least docile among all cow breeds. Don’t get us wrong, they’re great cows to have, they’re just anxious creatures. They produce the most milk per pound than any cow. A huge plus for these girls is their health- their rate for clinical mastis, as well as general injuries is far less than any other breed as well.
Some Jersey’s are known for running and bucking, which may scare some non farm people. Jersey bulls are far more aggressive, taking first place in bull breeds for being a pain in the butt.
Milk
-taste
- nutrition
Guernsey milk contains more fat and protein than most milk out there. Jersey cows have about 5% milk, while Guerneys have 4.51%.
Jersey cows have a higher solid
Guernsey cows have far more A2 properties than most common breeds, including the Jersey. The Jersey produces More A1 protein than Guernsey and Brown Swiss cattle. For more info on Jerseys and the A1 protein click here.
Sources
Guernsey Cattle Facts, Profile, and Characteristics | Agri Farming