The Zebu (Bos indicus), sometimes known in the plural as indicine cattle or humped cattle, is a species or subspecies of domestic cattle originating in the Indian sub-continent. Some 75 breeds of zebu are known, split about evenly between African breeds and Indian ones. The name Zebu originates from the French word Zébu, the name taken by Buffon naturalist, from the Exhibitors of one at a French fair in 1752.
Zebu are characterised by a fatty hump on their shoulders, a large dewlap, and sometimes drooping ears. They are well adapted to withstanding high temperatures, and are farmed throughout the tropical countries, both as pure zebu and as hybrids with taurine cattle, the other main type of domestic cattle. Zebu are used as draught and riding animals, dairy cattle, and beef cattle, as well as for byproducts such as hides and dung for fuel and manure.
Stamps & Postal Products
1964 Definitive Series – 2d Zebu Bull
