Breeding the biggest and most aggressive cattle in the world

From a distance Chianina cattle look like any normal breed, but up close it’s easy to see why they are known as the biggest cattle in the world.

And, get too close, you might find out why they are also regarded as the most aggressive cattle in the world.

Originating in Italy over 2,200 years ago, Chianina cattle, known as “the white giant,” were first bred to be strong draught cattle, using their immense frame and power to plow the land.

Fast-forward a few centuries, and Chianina cattle are now favored for their quality meat production, with fast growth rates of over 2 kilograms (kgs) per day.

Typically, Chianina bulls can stand up to 2m tall and weigh in at over 1,600 kgs. The breed has a 60% to 65% kill-out rate reaching the optimum carcass weight of 650 kgs in 16 to 18 months. Calves normally are born weighing 50 kgs.

Although not so plentiful in overall cattle numbers, there are many dedicated breeders in Italy that produce Chianina cattle achieving top prices in the country.