Wisconsin Symbols, Domestic Animal: Cow

Adopted in 1971.

The dairy cow was added to Section 1.10 of the statutes as Wisconsin's official "domestic ani-mal" by Chapter 167, Laws of 1971, in recognition of the animal's many contributions to the state. This action was termed a logical and long overdue step, consistent with the state's promoting itself as America's Dairyland, the slogan placed on state automobile license plates by Chapter 115, Laws of 1939. 1972 Executive Order 32 designated Wisconsin's first official dairy cow. The dairy cow was added to the statutes as Wisconsin's official "domestic animal" in recognition of its many contributions to the state. This made sense since Wisconsin already promoted itself as "America's Dairyland," as seen on our license plates. As part of the adoption the state was required to establish an annual rotation among Wisconsin's purebred cows.

This also lead to the designation of the state beverage, milk. Wisconsin has been a leader in the nation's milk production for many years. Agriculture remains an important part of Wisconsin's economy.

Dairy cows come in different sizes and shapes. Those having the same size, shape, color, temperament, and abilities are classed by breed. The major US dairy breeds are Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein, Jersey, and Milking Shorthorn. The largest dairy breed in terms of number of cows is the Holstein.

Dairy cattle have to grow up just like people do. A dairy cow doesn't produce milk until she has a calf. She is about two years old when she has her first calf. Dairy farmers like for cows to have a calf every 12 to 14 months.

The miracle of life unfolds many times per month on most dairy farms. On average, a cow gives birth to a calf every 13 or 14 months, and this begins a new lactation or milking cycle. A cow is normally milked for about 11 or 12 months and then the "mother in waiting" has a period of about 2 months before her new calf is born during which she is not milked. This gives her body a time of rest to prepare itself for the next lactation cycle, which starts as soon as the calf is born.

See Moo Milk