Ongole

Ongole cattle are a large Indian zebu breed from coastal Andhra Pradesh, especially around Ongole and the surrounding Prakasam, Guntur, and Nellore areas. They are usually white to light grey, with dark skin, a large hump, loose dewlap, strong limbs, and a deep body. Mature bulls often show darker shading on the neck and shoulders. The breed has been used for heavy draught work, modest milk production, and as foundation stock for tropical beef populations overseas, including lines that contributed to Brazil's Nelore.

In India, Ongole cattle are valued where animals must handle heat, long walking distances, and seasonal feed shortages. Bullocks have traditionally been important for ploughing and carting, while selected bulls are used in pure breeding and semen programs. Large frame and spirited zebu behavior call for secure facilities and patient handling. Mechanization and dairy crossbreeding have reduced demand in some villages, so conservation-minded herds focus on fertility, sound feet, strong maternal lines, and maintaining recognizable Ongole type rather than selecting on size alone.

Colors: Belted, Black, Black and White, Blaze Faced, Blue Roan, Brindle, Brockle Faced, Brown, Brown and White, Dun, Gray, Grey, Highbelt, Highpark, Lineback, Mottled, Pied, Red, Red and White, Red Roan, Riggit, Roan, Silver, Solid Black, Solid Red, Solid White, Speckled, Spotted, White, White Faced, Yellow