🍼 Buffalo calf
The young of a water buffalo.
A buffalo calf is the young of a buffalo. The mother carries it for a long time, usually about 300–320 days. Buffalo milk is richer and thicker than cow's milk, with more protein and calcium. It is used, for example, to make mozzarella.
Buffalo calves are born with almost no antibodies, the protective proteins against disease. So the first thing they need is colostrum, the mother's first milk. Farms advise giving it in the first half hour of life, and a second portion 10–12 hours later. In the first half day, a buffalo calf should drink 5–8% of its body weight. On the second and third days, about 10% of its weight per day.
After that, buffalo calves are often fed whole or skimmed milk from a bucket. The amount is set by weight, and the calf is weighed once a week. Little by little it learns to eat grass and feed. In studies, buffalo calves were weaned off milk at different ages, from 6 to 12 weeks.
How it connects to milk
🍼 Buffalo calf ← feeds ← 🐃 Water buffalo → gives → 🥛 Milk
Links
- Fed with milk by
- 🐃 Water buffalo
Frequently asked questions
How is buffalo milk different from cow's milk?
It is richer, with more solids, protein and calcium. That is why it is good for cheese.
When should a buffalo calf get colostrum?
In the first 15–30 minutes after birth, and a second portion about 10–12 hours later.