Dwarf cows take the heat

Worsening heat, fodder shortages and the threat of drought are forcing many hard-hit dairy farmers in southern India to reduce their herds; they are selling cows at throwaway prices, experts say.

But the solution to the problem is simple and small, livestock experts argue: heat-tolerant dwarf cows.

Researchers from Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University and the state government’s animal husbandry department are now promoting a switch to Vechur and Kasargod cattle, two local varieties known for being easy to raise, resistant to diseases and – most important – more tolerant of high temperatures than crossbred cattle.