In the cattle industry, breeds like Hereford, Angus and Holstein have been celebrated for centuries and rightly so. They all possess characteristics that breeders in their climates seek out for their herds. The Nguni, however, has been overlooked outside of the South African market until fairly recently. Here’s a look at the history of this fascinating breed.
Where are they from?
The Nguni cattle breed takes its name from the Nguni people of Southern Africa who traditionally bred them. Records show a history of cattle domestication and migration from north to south within the region that subjected herds to extreme climates and a host of tropical diseases. These harsh conditions caused Nguni cattle to gradually develop a host of beneficial adaptations so they are currently the best-suited breed for South Africa and other locations with similar climates. They also adapt well to cold weather conditions.
What are their traits?
Nguni cattle are small-medium with soft, glossy coats that come in up to 80 different colour patterns. They are excellent foragers with great tolerance to temperature extremes and a generally hardy nature. Natural selection has also blessed this breed with longevity, resistance to parasites and a very good temperament.
Why isn’t the breed better known?
While Nguni have been bred for centuries, they were perceived as inferior by settlers who preferred the more familiar European cattle. An Act was passed in the 1930s with the intention of wiping out the breed through a combination of tactics including the castration of Nguni bulls. Although not strictly adhered to, the Act struck a blow to South African Nguni stock. Research on the value of indigenous livestock led to a new appreciation of Nguni cattle for their extraordinary performance as compared to the favoured ‘exotic’ cattle types. Full protections were extended to the breed under the Convention on Biological Diversity in 1992.
The Nguni is slowly gaining recognition internationally so it is no wonder that breeders like Big Wig are looking into the potential of adding their genetics to introduce favourable characteristics to their herds. We’re excited to see what the future will bring to our industry with their contributions.
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