kinds of beautiful knowledge

Origin Story

Originating in the Sahiwal district of Punjab, spanning parts of modern-day Pakistan and India, the Sahiwal breed has roots dating back to the late 19th century. Developed by local pastoralists and later refined through government breeding programs, it represents a pure Bos indicus lineage without taurine crossbreeding.

Classification

Sahiwal cattle belong to the Bos indicus species, a group of humped cattle adapted to tropical climates. Within the broader cattle taxonomy, they are classified as a domestic breed prized primarily for dairy production, with some secondary use for beef.

Appearance or Form

Medium to large in size, Sahiwal cattle typically weigh between 400 and 700 kilograms. They display a rich reddish-brown coat, often lighter around the neck and underbelly. Distinctive physical features include loose skin, a prominent dewlap, and well-developed udders, all contributing to their adaptability and dairy function.

Behavior or Usage

Known for their docile temperament, Sahiwal cattle adapt well to grazing and thrive in tropical environments. Their primary role is dairy production, yielding between 2,000 and 3,000 liters of milk per lactation, with some individuals producing even more. They are also valued for their natural resistance to ticks and parasites, reducing maintenance needs.

Merchandise & Prints

Bring this kind into your world � illustrated posters, mugs, and shirts.

Sahiwal Sahiwal Poster

Sahiwal Poster

Archival print, museum-grade paper

Sahiwal Sahiwal Mug

Sahiwal Mug

Stoneware mug, dishwasher safe

Sahiwal Sahiwal Shirt

Sahiwal Shirt

Soft cotton tee, unisex sizes

Attributes & Insights

Taxon-Specific Insights

🌍Cultural Significance

In South Asia, the Sahiwal breed holds cultural importance as a vital source of dairy for rural and peri-urban communities. Its milk, rich in butterfat, is integral to traditional products like ghee, yogurt, and paneer, embedding the breed deeply in regional culinary and agricultural heritage.

📌Notable Facts

  • Sahiwal cattle are among the best heat-tolerant dairy breeds globally.
  • Their milk contains a high butterfat content, averaging between 4.5% and 5%.
  • They exhibit strong natural resistance to ticks and parasites, uncommon among many tropical breeds.
  • The breed has been exported widely for crossbreeding and dairy improvement in Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean.
  • Known locally by several names, including Montgomery and Lambi Bar, reflecting their regional heritage.

🐄Breeds And Variations

The Sahiwal breed itself is a distinct indicine breed without formally recognized sub-breeds or strains. Regional synonyms such as Montgomery and Lambi Bar reflect local naming traditions rather than genetic variations. The breed is often used in crossbreeding programs to enhance heat tolerance and milk production in tropical zones.

Visual Variations

High quality studio photograph of a Sahiwal
High quality studio photograph of a Sahiwal
Naturalistic image of a Sahiwal in its typical environment, such as a grassy pasture or open field
Naturalistic image of a Sahiwal in its typical environment, such as a grassy pasture or open field
Close-up photograph of the head and face of a Sahiwal, focusing on distinctive features such as eyes, ears, and fur texture
Close-up photograph of the head and face of a Sahiwal, focusing on distinctive features such as eyes, ears, and fur texture
Documentary-style image of a Sahiwal in a barn or shelter environment, showing typical housing conditions for cows
Documentary-style image of a Sahiwal in a barn or shelter environment, showing typical housing conditions for cows

Composition & Context

Taxon-Specific Insights

🥛🍖Milk And Meat Quality

Sahiwal milk is prized for its high butterfat content, ranging from 4.5% to 5%, making it ideal for producing rich dairy products like ghee, yogurt, and paneer. While primarily a dairy breed, Sahiwal cattle also provide beef, though this is a secondary use and less emphasized in their breeding.

🌿🌎Environmental Impact

Thanks to their adaptability and natural resistance to parasites, Sahiwal cattle require relatively low maintenance and fewer chemical treatments, reducing environmental strain. Their heat tolerance allows them to thrive in tropical climates where other breeds might struggle, supporting sustainable dairy farming in challenging environments.

🛠️🐮Care And Management

Raising Sahiwal cattle involves providing ample grazing opportunities suited to tropical climates. Their docile nature and parasite resistance simplify management, requiring less intensive veterinary intervention. Government breeding programs in Pakistan and India have helped standardize care practices, promoting their health and productivity in both smallholder and commercial settings.

Faq

  • What is the primary use of Sahiwal cattle? They are mainly raised for dairy production, with some use for beef.
  • How much milk does a Sahiwal cow produce? Typically between 2,000 and 3,000 liters per lactation, with some exceeding 4,000 liters.
  • Are Sahiwal cattle suited for hot climates? Yes, they have exceptional heat tolerance and thrive in tropical environments.