Brahman (cattle)
The
Brahman breed of
cattle originated from the
Bos indicus cattle originally brought to the US from India and Brazil. The principal breed was the
Kankrej, called
Guzerat in Brazil. Also used were the
Nelore or Ongole and the
Gir or Gyr. It has been crossbred extensively with
Bos taurus, the
European cattle. Both are members of the family
Bovidae.
The Brahman is the
sacred cow of
Hinduism, see also
Brahman.
The Brahman has a distinct large hump over the top of the shoulder and neck, and a loose flap of skin (
dewlap) hanging from the neck. Their ears are large and floppy. Bulls weigh 1600 to 2200
pounds (800 to 1,100
kg) and cows weigh 1000 to 1400 pounds (500 to 700 kg). At birth, calves weigh 60 to 65 pounds (30 to 33 kg).
Despite their huge size, they are known as a docile breed, if handled with kindness from calfhood.
Brahmans have a greater ability to withstand heat than European cattle. They have more
sweat glands, and also an oily
skin, thought to help repel
pest insects. They are also more resistant to
parasites and
disease.
They have also been extensively crossbred with European cattle in
subtropical United States, in
central America and in some
tropical areas of the world to gain their advantages in hot climates.
In the video game
Fallout, there are two-headed mutated cows called Brahmin, considered a misspelled reference to the breed.
The bull shown in the photo is probably crossbred, but shows Brahman physical characteristics.
Image:Redbrahmancow.JPG|A red brahman cow*
Brahman Cattle Information in
Oklahoma State Livestock Breeds Directory
*
American Brahman Breeders Association*
Australian Brahman Breeders Association*
Brahman Cattle - Cattle.com
