Nelore
Nelore cattle are the Brazilian expression of the Indian Ongole zebu, developed after imports from the Ongole and Nellore areas of what is now Andhra Pradesh and then selected heavily in tropical South America. They are usually white to light gray with dark skin, a distinct shoulder hump, loose hide, a pendulous dewlap, and strong bone. Horned and polled lines exist, but the breed is most associated with heat-tolerant beef production on large tropical pastures.
Most Nelore herds are run in cow-calf or beef systems, where selection emphasizes fertility, calf survival, growth, carcass traits, and manageable temperament. The cattle handle heat and ectoparasite pressure better than many European breeds, but they still need reliable water, mineral supplementation, shade access, and sound pasture planning. Commercial producers use Nelore both purebred and in crosses, while buyers comparing breeding stock usually look beyond coat color to performance records, scrotal circumference, maternal history, and disposition.
Colors: Belted, Black, Black and White, Blaze Faced, Blue Roan, Brindle, Brockle Faced, Brown, Brown and White, Dun, Gray, Light Gray, Lineback, Mottled, Red, Red and White, Red Roan, Roan, Silver, Solid Black, Solid Red, Speckled, Spotted, White, White Faced, Yellow
