Cattle
Bos taurus · Mammal, Vertebrate, Warm-blooded, Domestic
Animal Family
Bovidae, order Artiodactyla, class Mammalia
Animal Category
Livestock/Farm Animal
Breed / Variety
Black Angus
Conservation Status
Domesticated species, IUCN status Not Evaluated, population trend stable under human management.
About This Creature
Large, sturdy herbivore characterized by a solid black coat, blocky and muscular body shape, short legs, and a polled (hornless) head. Adult cows typically weigh between 1,000 to 1,500 pounds.
Physical Characteristics
Robust body structure with heavy muscling, straight back, short limbs, small ears, broad muzzle, and smooth black hair coat. Naturally polled without horns.
Behavior & Temperament
Social herd animal, diurnal activity pattern, communicates via vocalizations (lowing) and body language. Generally docile and curious.
Habitat & Diet
Origin Region
Originated in Scotland, now globally distributed in temperate and subtropical regions.
Habitat
Agricultural, Grassland/Savanna, Terrestrial
Diet & Nutrition
Herbivore, consuming grass, hay, and silage, utilizing a specialized four-chambered stomach (ruminant digestion) to ferment plant material.
Lifespan & Health
Lifespan of 15 to 20 years in captivity, significantly shorter in commercial agricultural settings. Susceptible to various bovine respiratory and digestive diseases.
Special Characteristics
Renowned for exceptional meat quality (marbling), docile temperament, and adaptability to various climates. Important economically worldwide.
Ecological Information
Primary consumer in agricultural ecosystems, contributes to nutrient cycling and vegetation management through grazing, though intensive farming can impact greenhouse gas emissions.