Banteng, also known as tembadau, are native to Southeast Asia, including Java, Cambodia, Thailand, and possibly Borneo. They are one of the most beautiful and graceful wild cattle species and are believed to be the ancestors of domestic cattle throughout Southeast Asia.
Did You Know: The Wilds hosts an active breeding herd of banteng!
We have also worked with producing calves through artificial insemination as part of a larger focus to use assisted reproduction to help manage conservation breeding programs. The Wilds is a part of a World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) Global Species Management Plan involving banteng...the first global collaboration between zoos for the conservation of banteng.
Here are some fascinating facts to learn before your next visit to The Wilds!
Appearance
- Both males and females have horns, but males have much longer horns that grow upward.
- Banteng are known for their distinctive white stockings and rump.
- Males are much darker in color compared to females and young banteng.
Social Structure
- They live in herds of 2-40 individuals, with each herd having only one bull.
- Males sometimes form bachelor herds.
Habitat
- They prefer drier, grassland habitats but move to forests and bamboo jungles during the monsoon season.
Diet
- They are herbivores that feed mainly on grass, bamboo, and leaves.
- As large grazers, they play a vital role in their ecosystem by disturbing plant life, allowing new plants to grow, and composting nutrients into the soil.
Come visit us at The Wilds to learn more about these amazing animals and their role in the ecosystem!
