Beefalo

Beefalo is a hybrid breed of domestic cattle (Bos taurus) and the American bison (commonly known as the "buffalo", Bison bison). The purpose of this crossbreeding is to combine the best characteristics of both animals, with an emphasis on hardiness and quality of meat.

History

The creation of the Beefalo breed began in the United States in the mid-19th century. The first successful crossbreeding was achieved by a farmer named Charles Goodnight in 1880. Goodnight's intention was to produce a breed that could survive harsh weather conditions while providing high-quality meat.

Characteristics

Beefalo are larger than domestic cattle but smaller than bison. They have a robust build, with a large, muscular body and a broad, heavy head. The coat is typically dark brown, similar to that of bison, and they have a distinctive hump over their shoulders.

The meat of the Beefalo is leaner and higher in protein than that of regular beef. It also has a lower fat content, making it a healthier alternative for consumers.

Breeding and Conservation

Breeding Beefalo is a complex process due to the genetic differences between cattle and bison. The Beefalo is a fertile hybrid, which means it can reproduce with either parent species. This has led to concerns about the dilution of the bison gene pool, and conservation efforts are in place to protect purebred bison populations.

Economic Importance

The Beefalo breed has significant economic importance in the livestock industry. Due to their hardiness and the quality of their meat, Beefalo are a popular choice for farmers in regions with harsh climates.

See Also

• American Bison
• Domestic Cattle
• Hybrid (biology)