The Damascus is thought to be of Anatolian
origin from the Hittite period. They are considered to be the best
dairy breed in the Middle East. Others even consider it the best
non-European dairy breed.
The average milk yield is 2,000 to 4,500
kg with 4% fat with exceptional individuals having production levels
as high as 7,250 kg.
The breed is raised with meticulous care,
given supplemental feeds and house inside during the rainy season
and at night - all of which are unusual practices for the region.
Damascus are usually dark red to brown or
nearly black with occasional tan individuals. They are the largest
of the Middle Eastern breeds with cows weighing 340 to 500 kg and
bulls weighing 700 to 750 kg.
Total population of the breed is estimated
at 10,000 and is endanger of extinction. In field work with
the breed, the Department of Animal Science at the University of
Cukurova (Adana, Turkey) found them to be well adapted to high temperature
and humidity and resistant to malaria.
They also found the Damascus to have a comparable
milk yield in semi-intensive production.
Reference:
Genus Bos: Cattle Breeds of the World,
1985, MSO-AGVET (Merck & Co., Inc.), Rahway, N.J.
Mason, I.L. 1996. A World Dictionary of
Livestock Breeds, Types and Varieties. Fourth Edition. C.A.B International.
273 pp.
Dr. Zeynel Cebeci, Department of Animal
Science, University of Cukurova, Adana, Turkey
Photographs:
R. E. McDowell, Professor Emeritus of International
Animal Science, Cornell University, and provided by Paul O. Brackelsberg,
Professor of Animal Science, Iowa State University
