The breed is usually brindle or reddish brown but will sometimes be
black, yellow or pied. They are found in two varieties, the Ujumqin
and Halhïn Gol.
Body measurements
Body weight and conformation of Mongolian cattle
are influenced greatly by the type of natural grassland on which they
are reared. Cattle kept on pasture, steppe, semi-desert-steppe and desert
have a tendency to become increasingly smaller in that order.
Milk production
This is influenced by natural conditions and
nutritional level, as well as by calving (lactation) number and stage
of lactation. Ujumqin cows, a type of Mongolian, may produce 500-600
kg of milk in a 5-month lactation with good nutrition in the grass-growing
season, the fat content being about 5 percent.
Daily milk yield is highest in the first month,
then gradually declines during the 5-month lactation period.
Reproduction
Mongolian heifers first come on heat at the age
of 8-12 months, but are not used for breeding until 2 years of age.
There is a breeding season from April to November, but most cows are
bred from May to September because of marked seasonal differences in
climate and condition of the grassland.
Reference:
Cheng, P. (1984) Livestock Breeds of China.
Animal Production and Health Paper 46 (E, F, S). Publ. by FAO, Rome,
217 pp.
Mason, I.L. World Dictionary of Livestock Breeds.
Third Edition. C.A.B International. 1988
Photographs:
Cheng, P. Livestock Breeds of China. Animal
Production and Health Paper 46 . FAO, Rome
