The Gir cattle is a famous dairy cattle breed originating in India. It is one of the principal Zebu or Bos indicus breeds in India, and has been used locally in the improvement of other breeds.
The native tract of Gir cattle is Gir hills and forests of Kathiawar. Which includes Amreli, Bhavnagar, Junagadh and Rajkot districts of Gujarat. The breed derives its name from the Gir forest, which is the natural habitat of the breed.
The breed is also known as some other names in different parts of their breeding tract. Such as Bhodali, Gujarati, Sorthi, Surti, Kathiawari and Desan.
Gir cattle is also very popular outside India. United States, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil have imported this breed. And they are being bred successfully there. The breed was also one of the cattle breeds used in the development of the Brahman cattle in North America.
Specialties of Gir Cattle
Gir cattle are a treasure of Indian agriculture, possessing distinctive qualities and specialties. Their uncommon specialities make them an integral part of Indian cultural, economic, and agricultural factors.
Their adaptability, high milk production, cultural significance and some other factors have make them a unique, popular and high demand breed that continues to play a vital role in sustaining rural livelihoods and traditions.
As efforts continue to preserve and promote this remarkable breed, Gir cattle remain a symbol of India’s rich agricultural heritage. Here we are trying to list the main specialities of these beautiful breed.
1. Historical Significance
Gir cattle have a rich history that dates back several centuries. They are originally from the Gir forest region of Gujarat. Their ancestry can be traced to the time of Lord Krishna, making them culturally significant in Indian traditions.
If you want to raise an ancient cattle breed with very good quality, then you must have a Gir.
2. Distinctive Physical Characteristics
Distinctive but very beautiful physical characteristics of these cattle is among other specialities of this breed.
Hump: One of the most recognizable features of Gir cattle is their well-developed hump, which distinguishes them from other breeds. This hump serves as an energy reserve and helps them endure harsh conditions. The hump also makes them very beautiful.
Coat Color: They typically have a reddish-brown coat, although some individuals may have a white or spotted pattern. This unique coloring is one of their defining traits.
Long, Drooping Ears: Gir cows have long, drooping ears that not only add to their distinctive appearance but also aid in regulating their body temperature.
Dewlap: They have hanging dewlap, and the these type of dewlap is not present in any other cattle breed.
3. High Milk Production
Gir cattle are renowned for their exceptional milk production. They are considered one of the highest milk-yielding indigenous breeds in India. The milk they produce is rich in fat content, making it ideal for the production of ghee, butter, and other dairy products.
4. Adaptability to Many Climate
One of the specialties of Gir cattle is their remarkable adaptability to diverse environmental conditions. They can thrive in hot and humid climates, making them well-suited for the Indian subcontinent.
This adaptability extends to their ability to graze on a wide range of vegetation, including coarse grasses. You can raise these animals in almost every states throughout India.
5. Highly Disease Resistance
Gir cattle exhibit good resistance to various diseases, reducing the need for extensive medical interventions. This hardiness is highly advantageous for dairy farmers, as it minimizes healthcare costs and ensures a healthier herd.
6. They Have Cultural and Religious Significance
Gir cattle hold significant cultural and religious importance in India. They are often associated with Lord Krishna, and their presence in various rituals and festivals symbolizes purity and prosperity. Many Hindu temples maintain Gir cattle herds on their premises as sacred animals.
7. Genetic Preservation Efforts
Recognizing the uniqueness of Gir cattle, there have been concerted efforts to preserve and protect this valuable breed. Conservation programs and initiatives aim to maintain its genetic diversity and prevent the loss of this indigenous heritage.
8. Crossbreeding Potential
Gir cattle’s genetics have been used to improve the milk-producing capabilities of other breeds through selective crossbreeding programs. This has led to the development of hybrid breeds that exhibit higher milk yields while retaining some of Gir cattle’s desirable traits.
9. Economic Contributions
The specialties of Gir cattle extend to their economic contributions. They are a valuable asset to dairy farmers, providing a consistent source of income through milk and dairy product sales. The high-quality milk they produce also fetches better prices in the market.
10. They Are Lovely
Gir is an extremely lovely cattle breed. If you keep in touch with these cattle for a few days, then you will definitely love them.
Gir Cattle Characteristics
Gir cattle is distinctive in appearance and a heavy breed. Their body is well proportioned and the udder in cows is well developed and round. Their body color is shining red to spotted white.
Although, their body color can vary from pure red to speckles, yellowish red to white with large red spots. Their skin is soft, thin and glossy. They have a big head with prominent bulging sheild and a long face.
The convex forehead of Gir cattle is the most unusual feature of this breed. Their convex forehead acts as a cooling radiator to the brain and pituitary gland. Their ears are very long and are an excellent fly and insect swatter.
Their eyes are hooded and black pigmented and there are lot of loose skin around their eye area. They have very hard feet which is black in color. The horns of Gir cattle are set well back on their heads and thick at the base.
Their horns grow downwards and backwards with an upward curve. They have large hump. The average body weight of Gir bull is about 545 kg and 385 kg for cows. Photo from Wikipedia.
Physical Appearance
One of the most striking features of Gir cattle is their appearance. They are medium to large-sized animals with a well-developed and muscular body.
They are easily distinguishable from other breeds and they are very beautiful. Here are some key physical characteristics of Gir cattle:
Coat Color
Gir cattle are known for their distinctive reddish-brown to copper-red coat color. This rich and vibrant hue sets them apart from many other cattle breeds, making them easily recognizable.
Horns
Gir cattle typically have upward-curving, lyre-shaped horns that add to their majestic appearance. These horns are not only ornamental but also serve practical purposes, such as defending against predators.
Hump
Perhaps the most iconic feature of Gir cattle is their well-developed hump on the back. This hump is composed of muscles and is a storehouse of fat, which provides them with energy during periods of scarcity.
The size and shape of the hump can vary among individuals, but it is generally prominent in mature Gir cattle. Big hump of these cattle give them distinctive look.
Dewlap
Another notable physical characteristic of Gir cattle is their loose, pendulous skin under the neck and chest area, known as a dewlap. This dewlap helps in dissipating heat and plays a role in thermoregulation, keeping the cattle cool in the hot Indian climate.
Temperament
Gir cattle are known for their docile and gentle temperament. They are easy to handle and work with, making them a preferred choice for small and large-scale dairy farmers. Their calm demeanor also makes them suitable for various agricultural tasks, including plowing and hauling.
Milk Production
One of the primary reasons for the popularity of Gir cattle is their exceptional milk production. They are renowned for being prolific milk producers with high-fat content in their milk.
On average, a mature Gir cow can produce 1200 to 1800 liters of milk per lactation cycle, with some exceptional individuals exceeding these figures. This makes them one of the most productive indigenous dairy breeds in India.
Gir milk is known for its high fat content, typically ranging from 4% to 5%. The rich and creamy milk is ideal for making ghee, butter, and other dairy products. This high fat content also adds to the nutritional value of the milk.
Gir milk is not only rich in fat but also contains essential nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is an excellent source of nourishment for both the young and old, contributing to the overall health and well-being of consumers.
Adaptability
Gir cattle have evolved to thrive in the diverse climatic conditions of India. They are well-suited to the tropical and subtropical regions, where temperatures can soar during the summer months.
Their adaptability to varying environmental conditions and their ability to graze on diverse types of forage make them a preferred choice for dairy farming across India.
Disease Resistance
Another remarkable characteristic of Gir cattle is their resistance to various diseases and parasites. They have developed a robust immune system over centuries of natural selection, making them less susceptible to common cattle diseases. This natural resilience reduces the need for extensive veterinary interventions, making them cost-effective for farmers.
Longevity
Gir cattle have a relatively long lifespan compared to some other cattle breeds. With proper care and management, they can live up to 15 to 20 years or even more. This extended lifespan is advantageous for farmers as it ensures a consistent source of milk and other dairy products.
Uses
Gir cattle is a dairy cattle breed and mainly raised for milk production in India. But in some other countries, they are also raised for many other purposes such as cross breeding or genetic improvement of other breeds.
This breed has also been used locally in India for the improvement of some other native breeds. In some areas, farmers also use the bulls for many agricultural tasks.
Housing
Gir cattle housing or shelter plays a vital role in ensuring the health, comfort, and productivity of these valuable animals. You can contribute to the well-being of your Gir cattle herd and maximize their milk production potential by understanding their specific needs and implementing proper housing design and management practices.
A well-designed and well-maintained shelter is not just a place to house your cattle; it’s very important for successful Gir cattle farming.
Gir cattle are known for their adaptability to varying climatic conditions, whether it’s the hot and humid climates of India or more temperate regions.
Provide them with a spacious and well-ventilated shelter to protect them from harsh weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and wind.
Ensure that each cow has enough space to move, lie down, and stand comfortably. Overcrowding can lead to stress and disease transmission. Proper ventilation is crucial to maintain air quality and prevent humidity buildup, especially in hot climates. Adequate airflow prevents respiratory issues.
Use non-slippery and comfortable flooring materials that are easy to clean. This helps prevent injuries and lameness. Provide natural lighting during the day and adequate artificial lighting during the night to promote cow comfort and productivity.
Design feeding and watering areas that are easily accessible for the cows. Ensure that water sources are clean and free from contamination. Designate separate areas for different purposes, such as feeding, resting, and calving, to minimize stress and improve cow management.
Housing Management
Cleanliness: Maintain a clean and hygienic environment within the shelter. Regularly remove manure and replace bedding to prevent the buildup of pathogens. Clean and hygine house keeps the animals healthy and happy.
Temperature Control: Implement cooling systems like fans and sprinklers in hot weather to prevent heat stress. Insulate shelters in colder climates to keep cows warm.
Health Monitoring: Regularly monitor the health of your Gir cattle. Isolate sick cows to prevent the spread of diseases within the herd.
Calving Facilities: Designate a separate area for calving with proper assistance and monitoring equipment. Ensure the safety of both the calf and the mother during the birthing process.
Feeding Management: Provide a balanced diet and ensure proper feeding practices. Follow a consistent feeding schedule to prevent stress.
Water Supply: Ensure a continuous supply of clean, fresh water, especially during hot weather and lactation when cows require more hydration.
Feeding
Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of maintaining healthy and productive Gir cattle. By understanding their dietary needs and implementing sound feeding practices, you can ensure that your Gir cattle are healthy.
Investing in their nutrition not only benefits the cattle but also contributes to the sustainability of your farming operation.
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Gir Cattle
Gir cows are primarily reared for their milk. So, it’s important o meet their nutritional needs adequately, and it’s vital to understand the key components of their diet:
Forage: Roughage forms the basis of Gir cattle’s diet. It includes fresh grass, legumes, and crop residues. Good quality forage provides essential fiber, which aids digestion and maintains rumen health.
Concentrates: Concentrates are energy-rich feeds such as grains (like maize and barley) and oil cakes (like soybean and groundnut cake). These supplements provide the extra energy required for milk production.
Minerals and Vitamins: Proper supplementation of minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins like vitamin A and D is crucial for maintaining overall health and productivity.
Herbs: You need to provide your animals with some helpful herbs to maintain the quality of milk. Most common herbs used for feeding these animals are Ashwagandha, Satavari, Neem etc.
Water: Access to clean, fresh water is paramount. Gir cattle can consume a substantial amount of water, especially during lactation.
Gir cattle require a balanced diet consisting of roughage and concentrates in the right proportion. This balance ensures optimal milk production and overall health. Allow cattle to consume forage freely, also known as ad libitum feeding. This mimics their natural grazing behavior and helps maintain rumen health.
Maintain a consistent feeding schedule, providing fresh forage and concentrates at the same times each day. Consistency reduces stress and improves digestion. Regularly assess the body condition of your Gir cattle. Adjust their diet accordingly to prevent overfeeding or underfeeding.
Provide only high-quality forage that is free from molds and contaminants. Well-preserved green fodder is an excellent choice. Store feedstuffs properly to prevent spoilage. Protect concentrates from pests and moisture to maintain their quality.
Ensure access to mineral supplements. Consult a veterinarian or nutritionist to determine the specific mineral requirements of your herd. Maintain access to clean water at all times. Gir cattle can drink significant amounts of water, particularly during hot weather.
During lactation, increase concentrate portions to meet the additional energy demands. This supports milk production. Overfeeding concentrates can lead to digestive disorders. Follow recommended feeding guidelines and gradually adjust rations.
Regular veterinary checkups are essential to monitor the health of your Gir cattle. Address any health issues promptly. Sudden changes in diet can upset the digestive system. Make gradual adjustments to feed composition.
Provide a balanced diet during the dry period to prepare cows for the next lactation cycle. If practicing rotational grazing, manage pastures effectively to ensure cattle have access to fresh, nutritious forage.
Breeding
Gir cattle breeding is both an art and a science, requiring careful planning, monitoring, and dedication. The aim is to preserve the breed’s unique characteristics while enhancing its genetic potential for milk production and overall health.
Right breeding practice is very important to preserve and enhance the unique characteristics of the Gir breed. Like many other cattle breeds, breeding these cattle is very easy and simple. Just keep good ratio of bulls and cows in your herd.
Select Breeding Stock
The foundation of successful Gir cattle breeding lies in selecting high-quality breeding stock. Look for cows and bulls with excellent conformation, good health, and desirable genetic traits, especially related to milk production.
Breeding Methods
Most of the people prefer natural breeding of this breed. Although, artificial insemination (AI) is a common method employed in Gir cattle breeding. This allows breeders to access superior genetics and optimize breeding outcomes. Proper timing and technique are crucial for successful AI.
Pedigree and Genetic Evaluation
Maintain detailed pedigree records is very important to track the lineage and genetic history of your Gir cattle. Regularly assess their genetic merit to make informed breeding decisions.
Heat Detection
Timely detection of estrus (heat) is essential for successful mating. Watch for signs such as increased restlessness, mounting behavior, and a swollen vulva in cows. Ask for help from an expert if you are new in raising these cattle.
Mating Management
Ensure that mating occurs at the right time, as timing significantly affects conception rates. Consult with a veterinarian or breeding expert for guidance.
Calving Interval
Monitor the calving interval to optimize reproductive efficiency. Aim for a calving interval of 12 to 13 months to maximize milk production.
Nutrition during Pregnancy
Provide adequate nutrition to pregnant Gir cows to support fetal development and ensure a healthy calf. Doing this is very important and helpful for the cows.
Calving Assistance and Calf Care
Be prepared to provide assistance during calving if necessary, especially for first-time mothers. Proper care for newborn calves is vital. Ensure they receive colostrum, proper nutrition, and a clean, comfortable environment.
Genetic Improvement
Continuously strive to improve the genetics of your Gir cattle herd. Select bulls with desirable traits for AI, and consider crossbreeding programs if it aligns with your goals.
Conservation Efforts
Contribute to the conservation of the Gir breed by following best breeding practices and supporting conservation initiatives.
Keep Records
Maintain meticulous records of breeding dates, calving details, and health records for each animal. This data helps in managing the breeding program effectively.
Caring
Proper care and management are essential to ensure the health and well-being of these majestic animals and maximize their productivity. Follow the caring tasks of these beautiful animals.
Housing and Shelter
Providing these cattle with suitable housing and shelter is fundamental to their well-being. Here are key considerations:
Housing Structure: The housing structure for Gir cattle should protect them from extreme weather conditions, such as heat, cold, and rain. A well-ventilated but weatherproof shelter is essential. In tropical climates, open-sided sheds with thatched roofs work well to provide shade and ventilation.
Space Requirements: Each Gir cow should have adequate space to move, rest, and feed comfortably. Overcrowding should be avoided to prevent stress and the spread of diseases. A general guideline is to provide at least 50 square feet of space per cow.
Bedding: Clean and comfortable bedding, such as straw or dry grass, should be provided in the shelter to keep the cattle dry and comfortable. Regularly changing the bedding helps maintain hygiene and prevents the accumulation of waste.
Provide Adequate Nutrition
Proper nutrition is the foundation of Gir cattle care, as it directly impacts milk production and overall health. Here’s what you need to know:
Forage and Grazing: Gir cattle are primarily grazers and should have access to good-quality forage and pasture. Rotate pastures to prevent overgrazing and allow time for regrowth. Ensure that the grazing areas are free from toxic plants.
Supplementary Feeding: In addition to grazing, Gir cattle should be provided with supplementary feed to meet their nutritional requirements. This may include grains, legumes, and mineral supplements. The feed should be balanced to provide essential nutrients, especially during lactation.
Clean and Fresh Water: Access to clean and fresh water is crucial for Gir cattle. Ensure that water sources are clean and regularly cleaned to prevent the buildup of algae and contaminants. Gir cows can consume a substantial amount of water, especially during lactation.
Feeding Schedule: Establish a regular feeding schedule to maintain consistency. Cows tend to thrive when they are fed at the same times each day. This also helps in maximizing milk production.
Health Care
Maintaining the health of Gir cattle is of paramount importance. Regular veterinary care and disease prevention measures are essential. Here’s what you should consider:
Vaccination: Follow a vaccination schedule recommended by a veterinarian to protect Gir cattle from common diseases. This may include vaccines for diseases like foot-and-mouth disease, brucellosis, and blackleg.
Deworming: Regular deworming is crucial to control internal parasites. Consult with a veterinarian to develop a deworming schedule tailored to your herd’s specific needs.
Hoof Care: Regular hoof trimming helps prevent lameness and ensures that the cattle can move comfortably. Check for any signs of hoof problems and address them promptly.
Disease Monitoring: Monitor your herd for signs of illness, such as changes in appetite, behavior, or appearance. Early detection of diseases can lead to more successful treatment outcomes.
Quarantine and Isolation: When introducing new cattle to your herd, practice proper quarantine and isolation procedures to prevent the spread of diseases. New additions should be observed for signs of illness before mingling with the existing herd.
Reproduction and Breeding
Breeding and reproduction management are crucial for maintaining and improving Gir cattle herds. Here are some key aspects to consider:
Breeding Practices: Plan your breeding program carefully. Gir cattle are known for their high milk production, so select breeding bulls that exhibit desirable traits for milk yield and conformation. Artificial insemination with quality Gir semen can also be an effective method.
Calving Management: Provide a clean and safe environment for calving. Assist the cow if necessary, and ensure that the calf receives colostrum within the first few hours of birth. Proper colostrum intake is vital for the calf’s immunity.
Reproduction Records: Maintain accurate records of breeding, calving, and reproductive history. This information helps in managing breeding schedules and identifying any issues with fertility or reproduction.
Other Considerations
Gir cattle are known for their docile temperament. Avoid aggressive handling, as it can cause stress and negatively impact milk production. Gentle and patient handling is more effective.
They are social animals and thrive in the company of other cattle. Isolation or loneliness can lead to stress and decreased productivity.
In hot and humid climates, provide shade and ensure proper ventilation in the shelter. Adequate water supply is crucial to prevent heat stress. In colder regions, provide extra bedding and protection from cold winds.
Implement effective pest control measures to protect Gir cattle from flies, ticks, and other parasites. This includes using fly repellents, providing shelter, and maintaining clean surroundings.
Special Notes
The Gir cattle is an important dairy cattle breed of India, and they are best known for their milking prowess. They are very hardy, and are famous for their tolerance to stress conditions and resistance to various tropical diseases.
Gir bulls are used for dragging heavy loads on all kinds of soil. They are very gentle and friendly in nature and love being with humans. They are very lovely and adore being scratched and brushed on their big dew laps, between the back legs and around the head.
The Gir cattle is very gregarious, and at night they form a circle very close together with their calves sleeping under their necks. It is a very popular dairy cattle breed in India.
And the average milk yield of a Gir cow is 1590 kg per lactation, with a record production of 3182 kg in India. The cows also perform very well outside India. In Brazil they produce an average of 3500 kg milk per lactation.
Average lifespan of Gir cattle is about 12-15 years. And a cow produce 10-12 calves during their lifespan. Review full breed profile of Gir cattle in the chart below.
| Breed Name | Gir |
| Other Name | Gir cow is also known by some other names such as Gyr Cow, Bhodali Cow, Gujarati Cow, Sorthi Cow, Surti Cow, Kathiawari Cow and Desan Cow |
| Breed Purpose | Mainly kept for milk production in India |
| Special Notes | Hardy, Friendly, Lovely, Loves Being with Humans |
| Breed Size | Heavy |
| Weight | On average bulls about 545 kg and cows about 385 kg |
| Climate Tolerance | All Climates |
| Skin Color | Their body color is shining red to spotted white. Although, their body color can vary from pure red to speckles, yellowish red to white with large red spots. |
| Horned | Yes |
| Milk Yield | Good |
| Rarity | Common |
| Varieties | Many |
| Country of Origin | India |
Best Tips for Raising Gir Cows
Among the various cattle breeds available in India, Gir cows stand out for their distinctive characteristics, high milk production and ability to thrive in diverse environments.
Originating from the Gir forest region in India, these cows are renowned for their milk production, adaptability, and docile temperament. However, here we are going to share some best tips for raising Gir cows successfully.
1. Choose and Purchase the Right Breed
The foundation of successful Gir cow farming is selecting the right breed. Gir cows are well-suited for dairy farming due to their high milk yield and adaptability to different climates.
Ensure you obtain purebred Gir cows from a reputable source. Visit many breeding farms before purchasing cows for your farm. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from an expert if you are new.
2. Provide Your Cows With Clean and Adequate Shelter
Providing the cows with very good quality housing facilities is very important. Gir cows require shelter to protect them from adverse weather conditions. Ensure the barn or shelter is clean, well-ventilated, and spacious enough to accommodate your herd comfortably.
3. Provide Them Good and Nutritious Food
Providing the animals with adequate food and proper nutrition is essential for the health and productivity of your Gir cows. Provide a balanced diet that includes high-quality forage, grains, and mineral supplements.
Consult with a livestock nutritionist to formulate a diet tailored to your herd’s specific needs. You can also ask for help from an expert who is already raising these animals.
4. Perform Regular Veterinary Care
Establish a relationship with a skilled veterinarian who can provide routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency care when needed. Maintaining the health of your Gir cows is paramount to their productivity. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
5. Supply Adequate Water
Ensure that your cows have access to clean, fresh water at all times. Proper hydration is essential for milk production and overall health. Never provide your cows with contaminated water.
6. Secure Your Farm
Securing your farm is very important for keeping your animals safe. You can try to secure your farm with sturdy fencing to keep your Gir cows safe from predators and to prevent them from wandering onto roads or neighboring properties.
7. Ensure Adequate Pasture Space
Gir cows are excellent grazers and they can thrive on pasture grazing. Milk quality also increase if you allow your animals to roam freely. Allocate enough space for your herd to graze freely, promoting their physical health and reducing feed costs.
8. Offer Regular Exercising Facility
Encourage exercise by providing ample space for your cows to move around freely. Exercise helps maintain their physical fitness and overall well-being. Don’t ignoor this part.
9. Implement Good Breeding Management
Implement a systematic breeding program to ensure a consistent and healthy calf production. Be mindful of the genetic diversity within your herd to avoid inbreeding.
10. Calving Management
Monitor pregnant cows closely and provide them with proper care during calving. Create a clean, safe environment for the newborn calf and ensure it receives colostrum within the first few hours of birth.
Provide calves with a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. Colostrum and milk replacers are essential for their early development.
Wean calves at the appropriate age to ensure their healthy growth and development. Consult with a veterinarian for guidance on the best weaning practices.
11. Keep Record
Maintain meticulous records of your Gir cow’s health, breeding history, and milk production. These records will help you make informed decisions about their management.
12. Social Interaction
Gir cows are known for their docile temperament. Regular interaction with them, such as gentle petting and talking, can help establish trust and reduce stress.
13. Milking is Important
Establish a consistent milking routine to maximize milk production. And milk your cows same time daily. Ensure that milking equipment is clean and in good working order.
Handle milk hygienically to maintain its quality. Proper storage and transportation are crucial for producing safe and nutritious dairy products.
14. Proper Manure Management
Implement effective manure management practices to keep your farm clean and prevent environmental pollution. You can use your farm’s manure for making organic fertilizers or bio gas.
15. Pest and Disease Control
Regularly inspect your cows for signs of pests and diseases. Implement appropriate control measures to protect your herd. Implementing natural method is recommended.
16. Set a Good Marketing Plan
Develop a marketing strategy for your Gir cow milk and dairy products. Explore local markets, cooperatives, and direct sales to maximize your profit. Determine your marketing strategies before starting this business.
Marketing your products is very important, and you will not be able to make good profits from your business if you can’t market your products well in the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
People ask many questions about Gir cattle. Here we are trying to list the most common questions about this excellent cattle breed and trying to answer them. Hope you will find your answer. Don’t hesitate to ask us if you have more questions.
What is a Gir cow?
A Gir cow is a breed of cattle originating from the Gir forest region in India.
How do you identify a Gir cow?
Identifying a Gir cow is relatively easy and simple. Because, the Gir cows have distinctive appearance. They generally have a rounded and domed forehead (being the only ultraconvex breed in the world), long pendulous ears and horns which spiral out and back. Gir are generally mottled with the color ranging from red through yellow to white, black being the only unacceptable color.
Why is it called a Gir cow?
The Gir cows were named after the Gir forest in Gujarat (the geographical area of origin of the breed).
How many Gir cows are in India?
The breed is mainly found in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat and near by states like Rajasthan and Maharashtra. It’s very difficult to tell the exact number of these cattle in India. Current population of the Gir cattle in Saurasthra region is around one million (more than nine lakhs).
How is Gir cow milk?
Milk of Gir cow is of very high quality. The milk is full of potassium, calcium, phosphorus and good fats which help stabilize blood pressure. The milk from these cows is light on the stomach. And the CLA present in the Gir cow milk also helps to reduce bad cholesterol and keep the hearth health in check.
Why Gir cow milk is costly?
Milk form these cow is of very high quality containing good amount of potassium, calcium, phosphorus and good fats. Thats why it is costly than most other milk.
Does Gir cow gives A2 milk?
Yes, Gir cows produces A2 milk and their milk is rich in Carotene, Vitamin A and vitamin E.
Why Gir cow milk is white?
Milk is naturally a white substance due to the make-up of water and other components including fat and protein that mix together to form tiny particles which reflect light.
How much Gir cow give milk per day?
Exact amount of milk production can vary from cow to cow. But generally, average milk production of the Gir cow is around 4-5 kg daily.
How many years does a Gir cow give milk?
Average lifespan of the Gir cows is between 12 and 15 years, and they can produce 6-10 calves in their life. After calving the animal gives milk for about 310 days. In a year, a cow gives milk for about 10 months.
Does Gir cow urine contain gold?
The analysis of urine samples of 400 Gir cows done at the Food Testing Laboratory of JAU showed traces of gold ranging from three mg to 10 mg from one liter urine. The precious metal was found in ionic form, which is gold salts soluble in water.
Why Gir cow ghee is yellow?
The color yellow comes from the fact that the cow’s milk fat contains a pigment called the Beta-carotene, the carotenoid which is a precursor of vitamin-A.
What is the cost of Gir cow?
Exact price of a Gir cow depends on numerous factors such as age, milk production, lactation status and also pregnancy status. Generally, price of the a Gir cow can vary from 1 lakh to 2 lakhs rupees.
What is difference between Gir cow and normal cow?
The main difference between Gir cow and other cows begins with the type of milk. Generally, other breed cows produce A1 milk whereas native breed cows like Gir produce A2 milk.
Is Gir cow farming profitable?
Milk of Gir cow is sold at high prices in the market. So, commercial Gir cow farming will be very profitable.
Is Gir cow hybrid?
No, Gir cow is a pure Indian cattle breed.
What do Gir cows eat?
Gir cows are to be fed with Jowar, Bajra-straw, dry fodder, cotton seed cake, soya husk, jaggery etc. Also vegetables like carrot, drumstick & beet-root can be fed to the cows.
Which cow is costly in India?
Gir cow is costly in India.
How many calves can a Gir cow have in a lifetime?
Average lifespan of a Gir cow is between 12 and 15 years. And a cow can give birth to 6-10 calves during her lifetime.
Why Gir cow is special?
The Gir cow is very known for it’s milk producing qualities and is often bred with Friesian cows to make the Girolando breed. The Gir is distinctive in appearance, typically having a rounded and domed forehead (being the only ultra-convex breed in the world), long pendulous ears and horns which spiral out and back.
What are the distinctive characteristics of Gir cows?
Gir cows are known for their hump, drooping ears, and a distinctive reddish-brown coat. They are also renowned for their high milk yield.
Are Gir cows suitable for dairy farming?
Yes, Gir cows are excellent for dairy farming due to their high milk production capabilities.
What is the average milk yield of a Gir cow?
On average, a Gir cow can produce 12 to 15 liters of milk per day.
Do Gir cows adapt well to different climates?
Yes, Gir cows are known for their adaptability to a wide range of climates, making them suitable for various regions.
What is the temperament of Gir cows?
Gir cows are known for their docile and calm temperament, which makes them easy to handle.
What is the lifespan of a Gir cow?
Gir cows can live for 15 to 20 years or even longer with proper care.
How do I identify a purebred Gir cow?
A purebred Gir cow should have all the characteristic features, including a hump and a reddish-brown coat. Pedigree records can also help confirm their lineage.
What is the best diet for Gir cows?
A balanced diet for Gir cows includes high-quality forage, grains, and mineral supplements. Consult with a nutritionist for specific recommendations.
How can I increase milk production in Gir cows?
Proper nutrition, regular milking routines, and good management practices can help increase milk production in Gir cows.
Do Gir cows require special care during pregnancy?
Yes, pregnant Gir cows should receive proper care, including regular check-ups and a clean, safe environment for calving.
When should I wean Gir calf?
Gir calves can typically be weaned at around 6 to 8 months of age, but consult with a veterinarian for specific guidance.
How can I protect my Gir cows from diseases?
Regular veterinary care, vaccinations, and proper sanitation are essential for disease prevention.
Can I raise Gir cows in a small-scale farm?
Yes, Gir cows can be raised on small-scale farms, but proper management practices should be followed.
What is the best time for breeding Gir cows?
The best time for breeding Gir cows is typically during their estrus cycle, which occurs every 21 days. Consult with a veterinarian for optimal timing.
What are some common health issues in Gir cows?
Gir cows can be prone to common cattle health issues such as mastitis, foot rot, and tick infestations.
How often should I clean the Gir cow shelter?
Gir cow shelters should be cleaned regularly to maintain a clean and healthy environment for the cows.
Do Gir cows need special care during the monsoon season?
Providing shelter and ensuring proper drainage are important during the monsoon season to keep Gir cows healthy.
What is the gestation period for Gir cows?
The gestation period for Gir cows is approximately 9 months.
How can I improve the quality of Gir cow milk?
Proper hygiene during milking and milk handling, as well as a balanced diet for the cows with different herbs, can improve milk quality.
Can I crossbreed Gir cows with other cattle breeds?
Yes, crossbreeding Gir cows with other suitable breeds can result in hybrid cattle with desirable traits.
What is the economic significance of Gir cow farming?
Gir cow farming can be economically significant due to their high milk yield and the demand for their milk and dairy products, which can contribute to the farmer’s income.
