Cattle breed profile
Ankole
Origin : Uganda — East Africa, Great Lakes region
How can this breed be identified?
The Ankole is an African cattle breed easily recognised by its very long, thick horns. The horns are usually white to ivory in colour, broad at the base and fairly symmetrical. Lyre-shaped and circular horns are especially typical.
It is a medium-framed, elegant and graceful breed, with a fairly straight top-line, a sloping rump and a small neck hump, more visible in bulls. Bulls have a stronger, more muscular neck, while cows show a finer and more feminine appearance.
Coat colour is highly variable: red, brown, black, white, roan or spotted animals may be seen. From a distance, however, a herd of Ankole cattle often gives a general brown impression. The breed is very hardy and well adapted to heat, harsh conditions and marginal grazing.
Overview, origin and history
The Ankole is an old African cattle breed descended from Sanga cattle. It is especially associated with Uganda and the Great Lakes region of East Africa.
It is an exceptionally hardy breed, able to thrive in harsh conditions and on marginal grazing. It is known for heat tolerance, disease resistance, fertility and easy calving. Ankole cows are also known as strong, protective mothers.
The breed is famous for its spectacular horns, but it should not be reduced to this single feature. Its horns, loose skin, deep dewlap and short coat all contribute to its adaptation to hot climates. In its original environment, Ankole cattle may also live in areas where herds move among large predators such as lions and leopards.
In South Africa, Ankole cattle were introduced from Ugandan genetic material through frozen embryos, with the first calves born in 2006. The South African population is now managed as a registered stud breed with precise breed standards.
Traditionally, the Ankole is a multi-purpose breed. It can provide very lean meat, high-quality milk, and has strong cultural, heritage and eco-tourism value.
Identification hint
Look for an African cattle breed with very long thick horns, often lyre-shaped, and highly variable coat colours.
Other names
- FAO / DAD-IS name
- Ankole Longhorn ; Ankole-Watusi
- Local name
- Nsagalla ; Watusi
Institutional references
FAO / DAD-IS
FAO / DAD-IS
Sources and contributions
Ankole Cattle Society of South Africa
Source title : MINIMUM BREED STANDARDS: ANKOLE CATTLE BREEDERS’ ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA
Identification hint · Game · Overview and history · Visual identification · Key facts · English translation
Profile validations
Ankole Cattle Society of South Africa
Approved photographs · Approved description · Identification hint · Game · Overview and history · Visual identification · Key facts · English translation