Description
Stunning Watusi skull, Ankole-Watusi, real bone. You will receive this exact skull.
Dimensions (approx.):
Horns at widest point = 41 inches
Tip of horns to bottom of skull = 38.5 inches
Skull length = 19 inches
The Watusi derives from central African cattle of the Ankole group of Sanga cattle breeds. Some of these were brought to Germany as zoo specimens in the early twentieth century, and from there spread to other European zoos. Eventually, some were imported to the United States, and in 1960 a herd was started in New York State by cross-breeding some of them with an unrelated Canadian bull.
The Watusi may be a number of different colors, but is usually red. The horns are unusually large and wide spread, with the largest circumference found in any cattle breed.
Watusi cattle, also known as Ankole-Watusi, are a distinctive and ancient breed of cattle originating from East Africa, particularly associated with the Ankole people of Uganda and the Tutsi people of Rwanda and Burundi. They are best known for their enormously large, lyre-shaped horns, which can span up to 8 feet (2.4 meters) from tip to tip.
Watusi skull, Ankole-Watusi.
Key Features:
- Horns: Their most iconic feature, used for defense, cooling (thanks to a dense network of blood vessels), and social status within the herd.
- Appearance: Sleek bodies, typically red or brown in color, though white and speckled varieties also exist. They have a regal, almost majestic presence.
- Size: Medium-sized, with bulls weighing around 1,200–1,600 lbs (540–730 kg) and cows around 950–1,200 lbs (430–540 kg).
- Hardiness: Adapted to harsh African environments — they are drought-resistant and can thrive on low-quality forage.
- Temperament: Generally docile but protective, especially the cows with calves.
Cultural and Historical Significance:
- Watusi cattle are not just livestock but symbols of wealth, prestige, and cultural pride in many African communities.
- Among the Tutsi, owning Watusi cattle was historically a sign of nobility and social status.
- The cattle have deep ceremonial and spiritual value — often featured in dowries and traditional rituals.
Modern Use:
- In Africa, still used for milk, meat, and social status.
- In the U.S. and other parts of the world, Watusi cattle are bred as exotic livestock and often kept on ranches or in zoos for their unique appearance.
- Their bloodlines have also been used to improve hardiness in other cattle breeds.
Fun Fact:
- Their horns contain a honeycomb-like structure inside, which helps with thermoregulation — blood flows through the horns, releasing heat and cooling the animal.
