Brahman (cattle)

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Bos indica bull, from Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

The Brahman (named for the sacred cow of Hinduism, see also Brahman) is a breed of Bos indicus (Zebu) cattle, later exported from India to the rest of the world. The main breed was the Kankrej, called Guzerat in Brazil. Also used were the Nelore or Ongole and the Gir or Gyr. The Brahman is mainly used for breeding and the meat industry, it has been crossbred extensively with Bos taurus (European) beef breeds of cattle. The Brahman is one of the most popular breeds of cattle intended for meat processing and is widely exploited in Argentina, Brazil, United States, Colombia and in the Kimberley (Western Australia) and the Northern Territory among many other places.

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.

Brahman in Avaré

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 along with a smooth coat. They are also more resistant to parasites and disease. Brahmans 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.