Africander Cattle: Most Popular Breed of Cattle in South Africa

The Africander Cattle, also known as the Afrikaner, is the most popular breed of cattle in South Africa, and can do quite well in poor conditions. They adapt easily into the environment, and can reproduce offspring even in the toughest conditions. Africander Cattle are native to tropical and heated areas; thus, they are adapted to thrive even in the hottest conditions. Africander Cattle take quite some time to mature, but once they are sexually mature, they are quite fertile, and can produce quite a lot of offspring.

Africander cattle are moderately sized creatures with a docile and gentle nature which makes them easy to handle and care for (another plus for domestication). This breed of cattle also is very efficient in their feeding behavior. For example, on a land which generally can only feed 80 cattle of a similar breed and size, 100 Africander cattle would be able to feed in generous amounts there. This gives them a better adaptation compared to the other cattle, and is one of the leading adaptations which allow them to prosper in population compared to other breeds.

Africander cattle have coats that range from a deep red to a light tan, and these coats cover loose skin. Africander Cattle are naturally resistant to ticks; however, the Africander Cattles which are bred in Australia are susceptible to tick fevers including Bovine babesiosis and Anplasmosis. Other than that, these cattle are quite adapted to the environment. Male cattle have humps on their backs. The Africander Cattle have white horns on their heads, and ears that are drooped onto the side of their head rather than standing erect much like other cattle.

Africander Cattle were popular for draft work because of the brute force that they have. They are one of the Sanga type breeds of cattle which were kept by the Dutch during 1652 when they colonized Cape Colony. These cattle, at the time, were captured and domesticated to pull farming equipment, and to pull wagons. However, as time went on, their primary use shifted from draft work to meat production. After all, the Africander cattle is rather meaty, easy to handle, and can reproduce quite well.

It is no wonder that the Africander Cattle is the most popular breed of cattle in South Africa - especially considering its many uses. Even to this day, the Africander Cattle can be used for their brute force although meat production is more popular.