The Jersey breed originated on the Island of Jersey, a tiny island in the British Channel off the coast of France. Nowadays, the breed can be found on all continents, except Antarctica, because it is highly climate adaptable. Until recently, American breeders distinguished between Island-type cows, which were referred to as show cows, and American-type cows, raised for milk and butterfat production. Bulls are very sturdy and aggressive. Jerseys can be different shades of brown.