We recently ventured in to the ZEBU ZONE and we are super excited! We've always wanted a cow and a Zebu (or two) is the perfect addition to our little farm. Zebus are much smaller in size then standard size cattle ranging in weight from 330 - 440 pounds. They only reach a length of 34-42 inches so they require a much smaller area, and the fact that they eat a lot less is a plus too. One similar quality in the smaller cattle to the standard size, is the fact that the bull is larger then the female.
Zebus originate from South Asia, but due to their ability to survive in hot and humid environment, they have been easily introduced to the tropical parts of Africa and South America and South Florida is perfect for this.
There are numerous herds of wild zebus and millions of domesticated zebus can be found on the farms throughout the world, but wild zebus are endangered by habitat loss as a result of deforestation. Despite and lower numbers in the wild, they are not yet listed as an endangered species.
Fun Facts
The body of a zebu is covered with short, dense fur that can be grey, white, red, brown or black in color. Certain species have spotted fur.
Zebus can easily be recognized by the hump on their back. Zebus also have flap of skin below their lower jaw and drooping ears.
The hump on a Zebu serves as a reservoir of fat that can be used as a source of energy when regular food is not available.
Zebus are thought to be the worlds oldest domesticated cattle
Both male and female zebus have horns.
Zebus are grazers. Their diet mainly consists of grass, but they also consume seeds, leaves and flowers.
If faced with danger, a Zebu can reach the speed of 25 miles per hour.
Zebus main predators are wild cats, bears and humans.
Zebus are highly resistant to viruses and different types of parasites.
Zebu's meat and milk are used in the human diet and their dung is used as manure and fuel.
Zebu can be crossbreed with other species of cattle. Many species of zebus are created as a result of mixing zebus with gaurs, yaks and bantengs. Only genetically pure zebus have hump on their backs.
On average, zebu can survive between 15 and 20 years in captivity.
On August 8, 2018 little Miss Reba was born on our little farm. She is the cutest little thing and it’s so fun to watch her grow.
We had the opportunity to have another birth on the farm December 16, 2019. Miss Wynonna joined the herd. She started mooing at 2 days old and enjoys chasing our chihuahua around the yard.
There’s been a lot of changes over the years. Our most recent addition born in January of 2023 (little Miss Kitty) is still with the heard and she’s a skittish one. She follows in her mothers footsteps for sure.
