Gir

Primary Purpose

Dairy

Origin Tract

Gir hills and forest tract of Kathiawar, Gujarat

Milk Production

1,800 - 3,500 kg per lactation (average ~2,100 kg, fat 4.5% - 5.0%)

Heat Tolerance

Very High

Key Physical & Phenotypic Characteristics

•Distinctive rounded, convexly domed forehead extending backwards like a bony shield
•Long, pendulous, curling ears resembling a folded leaf with a notch at the tip
•Coat color varies from shaded red, white with dark red speckles to pure white-red mottling
•Broad, loose dewlap and prominent hump with skin folds

•Docile temperament; responds exceptionally well to gentle handling and consistent milking routines.
•Requires adequate shaded resting areas during peak noon sunlight despite high tolerance.
•Benefits from clean, well-drained earthen flooring to maintain healthy hoof structure.

•Thrives on native dry roughages, green fodder (maize, sorghum, Lucerne), and balanced cattle concentrate.
•Requires mineral supplementation with zinc and phosphorus to optimize reproductive cycles.

• Ear tag or collar accelerometers should account for characteristic pendulous ear movements.
• Heat cycle duration averages 18-24 hours; silent heat can occur during extreme monsoon humidity.

High resistance to tropical tick-borne diseases, mastitis, and heat stress. Secretes predominantly A2 beta-casein.

2 animal(s)