Andalusian Black

Andalusian Black cattle are a Spanish beef breed from Andalusia, usually identified with the Negra Andaluza or Negra de las Campiñas type. They are solid black, horned cattle developed in the warm campiña and dehesa landscapes of southern Spain, where traditional herds needed to travel, graze coarse seasonal forage, and raise calves with little grain. The breed is part of Spain's native cattle heritage and is much less numerous than commercial continental beef breeds.

Management centers on extensive cow-calf production. Cows are expected to maintain body condition on Mediterranean pasture, use shade and scrub in summer, and calve without heavy intervention, though drought years still require hay or supplementary feed. Breeding programs pay attention to maternal ability, leg soundness, temperament, and retention of the black native type. Buyers outside the breed's home region should verify identification through Spanish breed records or a recognized association, because black cattle from commercial crosses can look superficially similar.

Colors: Belted, Black, Black and White, Blaze Faced, Blue Roan, Brindle, Brockle Faced, Brown, Brown and White, Dun, Gray, Grey, Highbelt, Highpark, Lineback, Mottled, Pied, Red, Red and White, Red Roan, Riggit, Roan, Silver, Solid Black, Solid Red, Solid White, Speckled, Spotted, White, White Faced, Yellow