Facts About Hybrid Animals: Beefalo Cattle

At least this hybrid animal actually was seen in nature before man intervened. As far back as 1749 crossbreeding had occurred naturally in some instances. It wasn't until the mid 1800s that we intervened and started to cross these breeds intentionally.

It was Charles Goodnight that became one of the first known breeders to cross these breeds intentionally, and he called the offspring "cattalo". There were others to follow suit, including the government. The breed was supposed to solve the problem of the cattle dying off in harsh winters*.

Some Problems In Breeding Beefalo Cattle

After Charles Goodnight's first successful attempt at raising these breeds, there were many things to consider. First and foremost, all males born were in fact sterile. This cattalo breed also had a very bad temperament and were difficult to handle. This is when male bison were bred with female cows. After many failed attempts, it became clear that with the right percentage of each, and the female buffalo with the domestic bull, there was indeed success.

The Upside of Half Buffalo, Half Domestic Cow

The meat produced by this Hybrid animal is lower in fat naturally. A much healthier version of beef dinner, it also has less cholesterol and less calories. This meat can be used in the same manner as any beef in any recipe. The other plus? These breeders are known to be less apt to use steroids and antibiotics on their herd. By far, it is indeed a healthier meat to eat. This hybrid, beefalo, appears to have the best of both the bison and cattle. They are tough when it comes to survival, yet gentle, loving mothers. Beefalo are known for their great parental skills. Beefalo also have a higher resistance to bacteria. This hybrid also is healthier for your body when consuming it. In short, this hybrid animal seems to have the best traits from both contributing parents.

Hybrid Animals, The Beefalo Conclusion

Please visit this page and see the comparison. There is a picture (please click to view) of a Beefalo standing next to a regular cow. The difference is amazing, and I could see where some farmers would go this route. But is it safe? At what cost do we play "god" and change the natural selection and breeding of animals? I imagine this subject is a lot of shades of gray, however, many will view it as black and white. People appear very for it, or very against it. I would love to hear from readers of this article, and how they perceive this.

*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beefalo
http://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/foodcomp/search/
http://www.natureswayfarm.net/beefalo.html