The Australian Milking Zebu (1977)

By June 1st, 1977

Heat, disease and parasites prevent European breeds of dairy cattle from realising their full potential for milk production in tropical areas. Cattle native to these regions are hardy and adapted to the conditions but are poor milk producers.

Heat, disease and parasites prevent European breeds of dairy cattle from realising their full potential for milk production in tropical areas. Cattle native to these regions are hardy and adapted to the conditions but are poor milk producers.

Since 1954 CSIRO has been engaged in breeding a dairy animal in which the best characteristics of European and Asian cattle have been combined.

The new breed – now known as the Australian Milking Zebu – is based largely on crosses between Sahiwals and Jerseys. It is tolerant of heat stress, resistant to ticks, and an economical producer of high-quality milk.