Oxen
Bos taurus
Fun Facts:
- Oxen are trained cattle, typically castrated males, used for heavy labor like plowing fields, hauling wagons, and logging.
- They are incredibly strong and can pull loads weighing up to 1.5 times their body weight.
- Oxen are trained to respond to voice commands such as “gee” (turn right) and “haw” (turn left).
- They have a calm and steady temperament, making them reliable working animals.
- In history, oxen played a critical role in agriculture and transportation, especially before the invention of machinery.
At Charmingfare Farm:
Meet our remarkable team of oxen, a pair of half Chianina and half Holsteins born in January 2023. These young giants-in-training are already displaying their strength and teamwork as they prepare for their important roles on the farm. By the time they reach five years old, we anticipate they will each weigh close to 3,000 pounds! On some days, you might be fortunate enough to catch them demonstrating traditional farming techniques, offering a glimpse into the vital role oxen have played in agriculture for generations.