During the month of July we have had an ongoing “Count the Cows” contest here at La Jolie. It was based on a jar filled with miniature cows and it was up to the participant to guess the number. We have had lots of entries and lots of fun, which left me wondering…. how many cows there are that actually provide milk? Think butter, ice cream, yogurt, and of course cheese! There are sheep and goats and water buffalo that contribute too, but what about the global stats on our friend the dairy cow? So here you have it…

• There are over 264 million dairy cows worldwide, producing nearly 600 million tonnes of milk every year.
• The global average for milk production is approximately 2,200 litres per cow.
• India has the greatest number of dairy cows in the world (40 million), the milk being commonly used to make the fresh, unaged Paneer.
• The most common dairy breed in Canada is the classic black and white Holstein. They make up almost 94% of the Canadian dairy herd.

Given all the stats, one must take the time to consider too that cows are highly social and live complex social lives; are (despite popular belief) very smart; and they have great memories, unique personalities, and a wide range of emotions. And they love to have fun!!!…

Thanks to everyone who participated in our contest!!  …..drum roll.…. The number of cows:   55

CONGRATS to Stephan who guessed the number bang-on!!