Caracterización de la raza Red Poll en Uruguay

This study aimed to characterize the Red Poll cattle breed in Uruguay through the analysis of its historical background, morphological and productive attributes, and its evolution within the national institutional framework. Data were collected from the Red Poll Breeders’ Society, surveys administered to producers associated with the breed, historical genealogical records from the Asociación Rural del Uruguay (ARU), and an in-depth case study of the “San Florencio” livestock operation. The methodology included the collection of qualitative and quantitative information regarding production orientation, management practices, selection criteria, perceived limitations, and improvement strategies; simultaneously, productive variables recorded at the studied farm—such as pregnancy rates, weaning weights, average daily gains, selection parameters, and prioritized breed traits—were analyzed. Historical ARU records were also examined to contextualize the breed’s development and consolidation within the country. The results demonstrated that Red Poll cattle exhibit relevant productive attributes that position the breed as a viable alternative for national cow–calf systems, including hardiness, feed conversion efficiency, calving ease, docility, longevity, and dual-purpose aptitude. Additionally, these characteristics enable the breed to adequately meet current market demands, particularly regarding efficiency, meat quality, and adaptability to extensive systems. However, its development is constrained by the predominance of other, more widely disseminated and established breeds in the national market, along with limited visibility, a reduced population base, the lack of systematic productive records, and the risk of inbreeding. It is concluded that strengthening the breed’s presence in Uruguay requires enhancing promotion strategies, consolidating genetic improvement programs, incorporating external genetics to expand population diversity, and improving record-keeping and traceability systems. The characterization conducted provides valuable insights for the understanding, appreciation, and potential strengthening of the breed within the national livestock sector.