Mammal · GBIF taxon 2441022
Holstein
Bos taurusAlso known as Holstein-Friesian, Friesian Cattle
Instantly recognizable by their distinct black-and-white piebald patches, Holsteins are the world's highest-producing dairy cattle. Originating in the northern coastal regions of the Netherlands and Germany, these gentle giants spend their days grazing pastures and ruminating through a four-chambered stomach. Social hierarchy within a herd is firmly established through subtle posture cues, vocalizations, and head-pushing displays.
DomesticatedHerbivoreLivestock
1 / 7—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Pasture Grass
- Alfalfa Hay
- Corn Silage
Predators
- Gray Wolf
- Grizzly Bear
- Cougar
ThreatsHeat Stress, Industrial Diseases
HabitatsPastures, Farmland, Grasslands
Life span15–20 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderArtiodactyla
- FamilyBovidae
- GenusBos
- SpeciesBos taurus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskHigh
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is high
- Cattle are heavy and can kick or charge if startled; keep a respectful distance, especially around calves.
- Why it is dangerous
- Massive body weight exceeding 600 kilograms and strong herd instincts can cause severe trampling or crushing injuries.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Recognizable by large frame size, short hair, and bold black-and-white color patterns.
- What to do
- Maintain a safe distance behind fence lines, avoid startling cattle from blind spots, and give mothers with calves wide berth.
Responsible observation
- Movement: Walk slowly and avoid sudden arm movements or loud noises that might startle the herd.
- Safety: Never cross a fence into a field containing a bull or a cow guarding young calves.
- Body Language: Watch for pinned ears, head lowering, or pawing at the ground, which indicate stress or irritation.
Livestock Peer (c) Roy Lowry, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Close Relative (c) Alex Stach, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Alex Stach · cc-by
Bovid Relative Jack Dykinga / Public domain · cc0
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