Brahman (cattle)

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Bos indica bull, from Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

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. The Brahman is a beef breed, it has been crossbred extensively with Bos taurus (European) beef breeds of cattle. The Brahman was named for the sacred cow of Hinduism, see also Brahman.

Brahman cattle in India

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 an intentionally misspelled reference to the breed.

The bull shown in the photo is probably crossbred, but shows Brahman physical characteristics.