Domestic Cattle

Domestic cattle occur around the world in pastures, rangelands, farms, and other human-managed environments. Numerous breeds have been developed for milk, meat, labor, hides, and other purposes, producing marked variation in body size, coloration, horn form, and build. Despite this diversity, cattle share the characteristic heavy body, cloven hooves, and ruminant digestive system of bovids. Social groups communicate through vocalizations, touch, visual postures, and chemical signals. (Animal Diversity Web)

Cattle are grazing herbivores that feed mainly on grasses, stems, and other herbaceous vegetation. Their four-chambered stomach permits microbial fermentation and rumination of otherwise difficult plant material. Breeding can occur throughout the year, with females generally reproducing annually. One calf is usual, although twins occur, and gestation lasts approximately nine months. Calves are nursed for about six months and usually become independent during the following six months under maternal protection and guidance. (Animal Diversity Web)