Bamen
(most common name)

(transboundary/brand name):
• Mithun
local/other name (Dzongkha):
• Bami
local/other name (Sarchokpa):
• Mencha
• Menscha

The name ‘Bamen’ comes from the Sharchokpa language in eastern Bhutan. The husbandry system for their Bamen cattle includes crossbreeding with Nublang zebus.

Bamen calves are born a dark red in color which turns to their mature characteristic slate color with white stockings at around 6 months of age. Pied coloration also occurs.

In Bhutan, Bamen cattle are very valuable. Their milk has an exceptionally high fat content (8–13%) and bulls are considered national assets.

The Bamen is easy to care for and feeds mainly on browsing.

The Bamen belongs to the Bibovine cattle group. Bibovine refers to several species of large Southeast Asian wild cattle that are closely related to common cattle.

This page was last updated on: 2023-05-14

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