What breed of cattle originated on the Channel Island of Jersey?

The breed of cattle that originated on the Channel Island of Jersey is Jersey cattle.

Jersey cattle were developed on Jersey, one of the British Channel Islands between England and France. The breed apparently descended from cattle brought from the nearby Norman mainland, and it was being recognized as a distinct breed by about 1700. Local breeding shaped the compact, usually fawn-colored cattle known today.

Jerseys became especially valued as dairy cattle because they produce milk with relatively high butterfat and protein. Their smaller body size, efficient grazing, fertility, and generally easy calving also made them attractive to farmers. The breed tolerates heat well and is now found in dairy herds around the world.

A common mix-up is Jersey versus Guernsey cattle: both are Channel Island breeds, but Jersey cattle come from Jersey, while Guernseys originated on the island of Guernsey. Jersey cattle were exported to the United States from about 1850, helping establish the breed internationally.