Common name: Ankole Cow
Scientific name: Bos taurus
Conservation Status: Not Listed | Domestic
At the zoo: Our herd consists of Spartacus (male, 10y), Eleanore (female, 7y), Betsy (female, 7y), and Mabel (female, 7y), and can be found in the central fields beside the blue wildebeest and Red River hog enclosures. Living alongside Oscar, the Persian onager, they are best viewed from the red fox viewing deck at this time.
Habitat:
Ankole cows are a domesticated species that are right at home on a nice farm or ranch
Diet:
They are herbivores and largely consume grasses
Life Expectancy:
20 years
Biology:
Ankole cattle are a domestic breed of cattle, sometimes referred to as Ankole-Watusi cattle. These breeds of cattle originate from “Sanga” cattle which are indigenous cattle to regions of Africa. These cattle hold important cultural significance as maternal figures, gifts, and are celebrated in poems and songs.
Fun Fact:
The horns of Ankole cattle help keep them cool. They have blood flowing through their horns that radiates heat out of their bodies.
