Oupette: The Bovine Muse of the 2025 Agricultural Show
As the pinnacle event in the agricultural calendar, the Agricultural Show handpicks a bovine ambassador each year to grace its halls. For its 61st edition, held from February 22nd to March 2nd at the Porte de Versailles, a 6-year-old Limousine cow named Oupette will take on this prestigious role.
Hailing from the Vienne region of France, Oupette embodies the Limousine breed with her distinctive russet coat and charming tuft of hair on her forehead. "The Limousine breed decided to apply to be the ambassador, so they considered farmers and thought about me," recounted her breeder, Alexandre Humeau. "I immediately thought of Oupette. She’s used to being around people, and she perfectly represents the Limousine breed, so everything came together perfectly for her to be chosen."
In preparation for the show, Oupette underwent rigorous training. "We wash her once a week, take her for walks, and expose her to noise and music," explained Humeau. "We try to make her as comfortable as possible." For Oupette’s well-being, such preparation is vital, especially since she will not be making the trip solo. "I’m also bringing Vienne, her young calf, to the show," Humeau added.
Despite the show’s lack of financial benefits, Humeau sees it as an honor and a source of immense pride. "It’s truly a personal achievement and a reward, as well as a wonderful experience," he observed. With five previous participations in the Agricultural Show, Humeau remains composed. "It has always gone well," he said. "We meet fellow colleagues, and the atmosphere is always friendly. Oupette is also a seasoned participant, so she’s not nervous either, and that’s important."
Humeau fondly recalls the day he learned of Oupette’s selection as the 2025 ambassador. "It was in the summer of 2024," he said. "I received a phone call and was immediately delighted. I knew we were in for an incredible adventure." For Oupette and her breeder, that adventure begins this Saturday, February 22nd.
A Lifetime of Passion
At the helm of a 430-hectare farm, Alexandre Humeau belongs to a legacy of farmers. His family’s agricultural enterprise spans 850 hectares, with roots tracing back to 1976. "I’ve always been in the agricultural world," he shared. "The farm has belonged to my maternal grandparents since 1976. This profession, the animals, the farms, have been my passion since I was a child."
Humeau’s passion for farming blossomed at an early age. "On weekends, during vacations, or whenever I had free time, I would come to the farm with my father," he said. "I would watch him work and help him." After completing a scientific baccalaureate at an agricultural high school, a BTS in animal production, and a degree in bovine livestock consulting, he settled on the family farm in 2010. He partnered with his father, two uncles, and two cousins.
In 2022, the family members parted ways, and Alexandre Humeau took over the breeding of his mother cows. "The reason is simple: one of my uncles didn’t want to raise cows, but it’s my passion," he explained.
Sustainable Farming: From Farm to Fork
Today, Humeau’s farm boasts 200 Limousine cows, pigs, and even a Christmas tree production. His livestock is certified with the prestigious Label Rouge, a testament to its quality. For Humeau, it is essential to sell his products locally, following in his uncle’s footsteps. "I sell 70% of my beef production and 10% of my pork production directly from the farm," he said. "The rest is sold in producer stores."
Humeau’s commitment to sustainability extends to his cows’ diet. "They are fed 90% with products from the farm," he emphasized.
An Ambassador for Agriculture
Alexandre Humeau views his participation in the Agricultural Show as an opportunity to raise awareness about the farming profession. "I’m eager to share my love for the Limousine breed and to convey the values of the agricultural world to visitors," he said. "Raising animals is a vocation, but it’s also a demanding profession. I want to convey this message to the public, just as I do with my two children on a daily basis."
Cloé and Siméon spend time on the farm, tending to the animals and observing their father’s work. There is no doubt that they will be filled with pride as they witness him celebrated at the 2025 edition of the Agricultural Show.
