Rare Panda Cow Born, Only 24 of These Miniature Pets Exist

Colorado farmer Chris Jessen and wife Pam became the newest owners of a "panda cow" when the rare calf was born on their farm New Year's Eve. According to the Loveland Reporter Herald, the panda calf is one of only 24 in existence. The calf, named Ben, was created through genetic engineering--the result of breeding mother Bella, a low-line Angus cow, and father Donovan, a panda bull.

Ben is the second panda calf to be born on the Jessen farm, but was a surprise. Jessen told Denver's KMGH-TV that he was expecting a black calf.

What is a Panda Cow?

This rare bovine gets its nickname strictly from its uncanny similarity to a panda bear. It's white face and black rimmed eyes are distinctly panda-like. As is the white belt encircling the midsection of an otherwise black body. The small stature also helps with the likeness.

Baby Ben has a black mark on his forehead. His thick newborn coat, which is fluffier than an adult panda cow, also reinforces the similarity to a panda. Ben is expected to grow four feet tall and weigh close to 1,000 pounds, like his father.

First Miniature Panda Cow Born in 2000

The breed is not only extremely rare, but is also only ten years old. The first mini panda cow, Precious, was born on Apr. 27, 200, to the Happy Mountain Miniature Cattle Farm, in Covington Washington. It took 44 years of genetic engineering by Richard Gradwohl, although the farmer claims the new breed was actually an accident.

Precious' father was a miniature American Beltie bull, named Rebel. The mother was a small Happy Mountain Cattle, named Sarah. Calf Precious was only 14 inches at birth.

Happy Mountain originated 18 of the registered 26 breed of miniature cattle. Gradwohl is the author of The Beginners Guide to Owning Your Own Miniature Cattle Business guidebook, a 24-part article series.

Can a Panda Cow be a Pet?

These miniatures are actually bred to be pets. Jessen plans to sell Ben as one, after training. Cows are social animals who respond well to humans and some will come when their name is called.

Panda cows can be groomed, petted and return affection. A bond can be formed with them, like other, more traditional, pets.

Expect to pay a hefty price for the rarity. Mini Panda Cows have sold for around $30,000.