Droimeann Cattle: Ireland’s Newly Recognised Native Breed

Droimeann Cattle are now officially recognised as a breed, and are the first native breed to be recognised since the Irish moiled in 1927.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The Droimeann (Droim Fhoinn) takes its name from the white dorsal shape running the length of its back. “Droim” can indicate anything to do with the back or the top of something curved e.g. droimin – a small hill or drumlin. “Fionn” meaning white or bright.

Physical Characteristics and Temperament

The Droimeann is a small to medium sized animal. They are generally even tempered with a placid disposition and are intelligent in nature. They are dairy like in shape and produce milk high in solids. When fattened and killed their meat is marbled and has a distinct flavour. They come in various colours raining from nearly all black, red or white with dark ears and muzzle. More often thy are dark sided red, black or blue with a distinctive white back and underside.

Adaptability and Fertility

They do better than other breeds on poorer forage which they convert easily to milk and meat. The Droimeann cow is very fertile and is early maturing.