🐄 Bargur Cattle
📍 Region of Origin
Native to the Bargur hills in Erode district, Tamil Nadu.
Predominantly reared by the Bargur tribal communities in the Sathyamangalam forest region.
🌿 Distinct Characteristics
Color: Reddish brown is common; sometimes with white markings.
Body size: Small to medium in size, but extremely agile and strong.
Horns: Small, curved, and often upward-pointing.
Adaptability: Well adapted to hilly, forest terrains; known for endurance and speed on rough terrain.
Disease resistance: Naturally high resistance due to exposure to wild environments.
💪 Utility
Draught power: Primarily used for ploughing and cart pulling, especially in hilly terrains.
Milk yield: Low (1.5 – 2.5 liters/day) but high-fat content (around 4–5%).
Temperament: Slightly aggressive, requires skilled handlers. Known for alertness and agility.
🐃 Bargur Buffalo
> Though not as widely recognized as other Indian buffalo breeds, the Bargur buffalo is a local genetic resource found in and around the Bargur forest region, reared by tribal communities for both milk and draught purposes.
📍 Region of Origin
Native to Bargur hills and surrounding forest villages in Erode district, Tamil Nadu.
🌿 Distinct Characteristics
Color: Usually black or dark grey.
Body: Strong, well-muscled with a sturdy frame suitable for work.
Horns: Curved and spiral-shaped.
Reproduction: Calves once a year; adapted to local breeding cycles.
Resilience: High immunity and thrives well in low-input, rugged forest conditions.
💪 Utility
Milk yield: Moderate – about 4 to 6 liters/day, with high fat content (up to 6%).
Work animal: Used for ploughing fields and carting; known for stamina and power.
Sustainability: Suited for small-scale farmers and tribal households.
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🔒 Conservation Status
Both Bargur cattle and Bargur buffalo are considered indigenous breeds under threat due to:
Crossbreeding with exotic breeds.
Habitat loss and shrinking grazing land.
Lack of recognition and commercial support.
Efforts are being taken by:
Tamil Nadu Animal Husbandry Department
ICAR–NBAGR (National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources)
Local universities and NGOs working on conservation and genetic mapping.
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📘 References
ICAR Reports
Tamil Nadu Livestock Development Agency
Indigenous Cattle Breeds Survey Reports
On-ground tribal community interviews and research data