Ayrshire Cattle

The Ayrshire cattle is a breed of dairy cattle originated from Ayrshire in Scotland. The average mature Ayrshire cow weighs 450 to 600 kilograms (990–1,300 lb). Ayrshires have red markings. They can be an orange to a dark brown, with or without coloured legs. They are known for low somatic cell counts, ability to convert grass into milk efficiently, and hardiness. The breed's strong points are the now desired traits of easy calving and longevity.

The breed was also known as Dunlop cattle (see Dunlop) or Cunninghame cattle (see Cunninghame). They were exported to all parts of the world and extensive cattle docks used to exist at Cunninghamhead station for loading and export purposes. The Dunlops of that ilk are credited with breeding this line, with animals being brought in from Holland.