THE SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION OF LIVESTOCK IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Abstract

Production and sale of livestock dominate the rural economy of Northern Ireland. Spatial variations occur, however, both in the scale of production and in the importance of individual livestock types. The paper investigates these variations by analysis of published data for administrative areas in Northern Ireland. Initial analysis of variations in total stock densities suggests an increase in the scale of production towards the east of the province. Subsequently, distributions of individual livestock types are demonstrated and reasons for spatial variations discussed. Finally, livestock combinations are calculated to assess the relative importance of individual livestock types within each administrative area. Complex combinations are found over much of the province, although certain regional patterns can be observed. Beef fattening forms the dominant enterprise over much of the province, while distinct regions dominated by dairying in the north-east, and beef breeding the south-west are observed. Sheep assume a dominant role only in the hills of the north-east, while pigs and poultry, though never the dominant types in combination, assume a more important role in central lowland districts.