Razzetta d'Oropa
Italian breeds of cattle

Origin and diffusion

It i salso called “Pezzata Rossa d’Oropa”. This breed comes from the Biella area (Elvo Valley). It is called ‘razzetta’to underline the fact that it comes from a small area. Similarly to Simmenthal, it is said to come from Northern European pied cattle dating back to the fifth century Burgundi or Borgognoni. It is considered to be  a Valdostana cross breed.
Since 1985 the Registry Office of autochthonous cattle breeds and ethnic groups of limited diffusion has been founded, in order to protect those Italian cattle breeds at risk of extinction and to safeguard this genetic heritage. Among them there are the following breeds: Agerolese, Bianca Val Padana (Modenese), Burlina, Cabannina, Calvana, Cinisara, Garfagnina, Modicana, Mucca Pisana, Pezzata Rossa d’Oropa, Pinzgau, Pontremolese, Pustertaler, Reggiana, Sarda, Sardo-Modicana, Varzese.

Morphological characteristics

It presents the same characteristics as ‘Pezzata Rossa Valdostana’ with a dark red pied coat. Limbs and abdomen are usually white as well as the head with red ears. Red spots are rarely found on the head. Small size and height.

Economic characteristics

Both apt for milk and meat, with prevailing milk production; very suitable to harsh conditions on mountain grazing.

Oropa - Cow

Oropa - Bull