Cows

Cows are large domesticated ungulates that are a prominent part of human agriculture. They are primarily raised for milk, meat, and hides, but also for draft purposes. The term "cow" is also used to refer to the female of several other large mammal species, including elephants, whales, and sea lions.

Anatomy and characteristics

Cows are large animals, with a typical adult standing about 1.4–1.8 m (4.6–5.9 ft) tall at the shoulder, and weighing between 600 and 800 kg (1,300 and 1,800 lb). They have a large, barrel-shaped body, a broad head, and a long, pointed muzzle. The skin is covered with hair, which can be of various colors, including white, black, brown, and a mixture of these.

Cows have a pair of large, curved horns, which are present in both males and females, but are typically larger and more curved in males. The horns are used for defense against predators and for fighting with other cows.

The digestive system of cows is specialized for processing grass and other plant material. They have a four-chambered stomach, which includes the rumen, a large fermentation vat where bacteria and other microorganisms break down cellulose and other indigestible plant components.

Behavior and reproduction

Cows are social animals, living in groups called herds. They have a complex social structure, with a dominance hierarchy based on age, size, and sex. Cows communicate with each other using a variety of vocalizations, body postures, and facial expressions.

Cows are polygamous, with a single male (the bull) mating with multiple females. The gestation period is about nine months, after which a single calf is born. The calf is weaned at about six months of age, but may continue to suckle for up to a year.

Domestication and uses

Cows were domesticated from wild aurochs in the Near East about 10,000 years ago. They have been used by humans for milk, meat, hides, and draft purposes ever since. Today, cows are one of the most important livestock species, with over 1 billion individuals worldwide.

Cows are also important in many cultures as symbols of wealth, power, and fertility. They are featured in art, mythology, and religion in many societies.

Health and diseases

Cows are susceptible to a number of diseases, including bovine tuberculosis, brucellosis, foot-and-mouth disease, and mad cow disease. These diseases can be serious threats to livestock production and can also be transmitted to humans.

See also

• Bovine spongiform encephalopathy
• Dairy farming
• Beef cattle
• Livestock

Cows Resources
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