[Remarkable domestic animal breeds in California]

Abstract

In the United States, especially in California, there is a surprising variety of farm animal breeds. This multitude of different forms is a result of the history of this State. Some breeds came from other countries, others were developed from feral animals and yet others were created in this state by crossing and selective breeding. Several of these breeds soon attained a high level of performance and they were exported to many other countries. Others remained primitive landraces with special adaptation or had unusual morphological characteristics. There are some breeds that influenced the history of North America considerably. This is only one reason why these breeds should be sustained as a cultural heritage.