Overall:
* Massive size: They are one of the largest beef breeds, with bulls reaching up to 3,000 pounds.
* Muscular build: Their bodies are very muscular, particularly in the hindquarters.
* Off-white to cream color: Their coat is a light, creamy white, often with a slight yellow tint.
Specific Features:
* Broad chest and shoulders: Their chest is wide and deep, and their shoulders are heavily muscled.
* Straight, strong legs: Their legs are long and straight, with strong bone structure.
* Short, thick neck: Their neck is short and thick, often with a prominent dewlap.
* Short, fine hair: Their hair is short and fine, giving them a smooth, sleek appearance.
* Small horns: They typically have small, curled horns, although some lines may be polled (hornless).
Here's a comparison to help you visualize:
Think of a large, muscular steer, but with a very light cream-colored coat. They have a distinctive, almost blocky build, with lots of muscle and a very wide chest.
Here are some resources for visuals:
* Google Images: Search "Charolais cattle" for many images.
* Breed websites: Check out websites like the American Charolais Association for photos and videos.
Hopefully, this gives you a good idea of what a Charolais looks like!