Murrah Buffalo Characteristics: Complete Identification Guide
The definitive guide to identifying and understanding the physical features, temperament, and unique characteristics of the world's finest dairy buffalo breed.
Physical Features of Murrah Buffalo
The Murrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) is the gold standard for dairy buffalo worldwide. Use this guide to identify purebred traits.
Color
Jet black coat with occasional white markings on tail switch and lower extremities
Body
Massive, wedge-shaped body with deep barrel chest and well-sprung ribs
Head
Small, clean-cut head with prominent forehead and bright, alert eyes
Horns
Short, tightly curled horns coiling backward and upward (characteristic 'Murrah' curl)
Udder
Large, well-developed udder extending well forward with prominent milk veins
Legs
Short, strong legs with well-set hooves; clean bone structure
Tail
Long tail reaching below the hocks with white switch
Weight
Adult females: 450-550 kg; Adult males: 550-700 kg
How to Identify Pure Murrah Buffalo
1. The Head & Horns (The Trademark)
The head is the most distinguishing feature. It should be small, clean-cut, and free from heavy flesh (a sign of a good dairy temperament).
- Horns: The trademark of the breed. They should be short, tightly curled, spiraling inward in a corkscrew manner. Long or open horns indicate crossbreeding (often with Nili-Ravi).
- Eyes: Bright, prominent, and active.
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