Sniper Creek Farm
What Is a Miniature Zebu?
They are cattle. Darn cute cattle!
Miniature Zebu in the United States are comprised of different breeds of zebu (humped cattle) that were imported to the USA. The earliest recorded import of Zebu was by Dr. James Bolton Davis of South Carolina in 1849.
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Zoological parks imported zebu in following years and the first registry for Miniature Zebu was started in 1991 in the United States. Breed standards were established by the registry. Miniature Zebu are a horned breed and produce A2/A2 milk.
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They are an extremely hardy breed.
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Milk?
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Yes, PLEASE! Mini Zebu are "mini-milkers", one cow can produce about a half to one gallon of milk daily. Compared to a normal size Jersey or Holstein cow which produce about five gallons daily.
Are they really that small?
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Yes, Mini Zebu can be quite small. The breed standard is not too exceed 42 inches tall, when measured behind the hump, but there’s no minimum. Most breeders try to stay between 34 and 38 inches. Their small size makes them less intimidating for kids, easier to handle, and they are perfect for kids 4H and FAA shows. Furthermore, their small size is easier on the land and fencing, and of course feed and hay cost are lower then normal size cattle. For more information follow this IMZA link to Lonnie Hoovers article in the Rare Breeds Journal.
Personality?
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Zebu are much like other cattle. Each will also have his or her own personality. Their smaller size does make them much less intimidating than a full size cow.