Miniature Zebu facts for kids
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The Miniature Zebu is a special kind of cattle that is much smaller than regular cows. They are a modern breed that was developed in the United States. These tiny cows are a type of zebu, which means they have a small hump on their shoulders. A group was formed in 1991 to help manage and register these unique miniature cattle.
History of Miniature Zebu
Long ago, in India, there were many traditional breeds of very small zebu cattle. Some of these, like the Vechur breed from southern Kerala, were known as nadudana, which means "small cattle." These tiny cows have been around for a very long time in different parts of the world.
The Miniature Zebu breed as we know it today was officially started in the United States. This happened when the International Miniature Zebu Association was created in 1991. This association keeps a list of all registered Miniature Zebu cattle. When the association began, there were small zebu cows in twenty-three American zoos. About fifty private owners also had these animals. The first Miniature Zebu cows in the U.S. came from countries like Brazil, the Dominican Republic, and Sweden. By 2016, more than 6,200 Miniature Zebu animals were officially registered.
What Makes Miniature Zebu Special?
Miniature Zebu cattle are known for their small size. To be registered as a Miniature Zebu, an adult cow or bull cannot be taller than 107 cm (42 in) at its shoulders, which is called the withers. This small height makes them very different from most other cattle breeds. They are often kept as pets or for small farms because of their gentle nature and unique look.
