Panda Cow Born in Colorado

A rare panda cow was born to a northern Colorado family farm. The unusual miniature cross-breed was welcomed by farm owners, Chris and Pam Jessen.

According to ABC News, the panda cow was worked on by Richard Gradwohl for 44 years. He was a Washington farmer who used eight different cows to create the panda cow. His work lead to the recent birth of Ben at the Campion, Colorado farm.

Professor Emeritus Richard Gradwohl is the finding director of the International Miniature Cattle Breeders Association. Most panda cows are kept as pets or show animals. There are currently only 25 panda cows in the world. There are 26 registered breeds of miniature cattle worldwide today and their popularity is increasing. Gradwohl teaches others how to have their own miniature cattle business.

Chris Jessen said to "Good Morning America," "Miniatures range from about 44 inches tall on their tail side, on their hocks, but he can get up to 1000 pounds though - so a pretty good sized animal. Probably the most amazing thing aside from the fact that he's rare is that he's on the couch right now. Suddenly my lap is starting to get very warm! I don't think he's gonna be on the coach after this again!"

Eventually the Jessens want to sell the small panda cow that sat on Chris' lap. Ben is valued at around $25,000.

The Washington Post indicates Ben is all cow and not part panda. They also confirm that rumors panda cows make white and brown milk are untrue.

Panda cows have that name because of distinctive black and white markings. Ben has a wide white belt around his tummy and a white face with black around the eyes. He resembles a panda and lives up to the name.

The Jessen's farm also houses other miniature cattle as well as a miniature kangaroo. The Jessens are hoping to get about $30,000 for the sale of Ben as they have two other panda cows.

Chris Jessen stated, "The plan is to sell him, and yes we hope there's a big demand. There's not a huge demand for pet cows, but I think it's growing in popularity."

Panda cows might be the next pet of choice as people downsize their homes, cars and lifestyles. Either way, Ben is a beautiful example of this rare species.