The Foral Farm of Gorliz has hosted a new public auction of native livestock, successfully selling 35 animals, primarily of the Pyrenean and Pottoka breeds, bringing together industry professionals and dedicated breeders committed to the conservation and future of these emblematic rural Basque breeds. The event, now a fixture in Bizkaia's livestock calendar, served to highlight the selection and genetic improvement work carried out for decades at the Gorliz facilities. In total, four Pyrenean cows without calves, seventeen Pyrenean cows with calves, twelve Pottoka mares, and four Pottoka foals were auctioned.
The Provincial Deputy for Natural Environment and Agriculture, Arantza Atutxa, emphasized that this auction reflects "Bizkaia's commitment to the conservation and improvement of native breeds and to the future of the livestock sector." She also underscored the special nature of this edition, as the Gorliz Foral Farm is nearing its 50th anniversary of dedicated work with the Pyrenean and Pottoka breeds.
“"Behind each of these animals lie decades of effort, genetic improvement, and a commitment to keeping alive a heritage that is part of our identity and our rural environment."
The Gorliz Foral Farm is the reference center in Bizkaia for both native breeds, developing programs aimed at ensuring their conservation, genetic quality, and adaptation to livestock farms. For the Pyrenean breed, efforts focus particularly on improving aspects related to reproduction, maternal capacity, and animal adaptation, complementing advancements in meat production.
Regarding the Pottoka, despite improvements in recent years, it remains a critically endangered breed. Therefore, actions are promoted in Gorliz to aid its recovery, encourage breeding, and expand genetic diversity to reduce inbreeding. The objective is to continue ensuring the future of these native breeds and reinforce their value within the livestock sector and the rural environment of Bizkaia.
