History
The Nisyros island cattle population was identified due to field research by “Amalthia”. Their origin is essentially unknown. The most frequently quoted explanation is that they arrived on the island with Greek refugees from Asia Minor in 1922. Nonetheless, earlier sources state that steppe type cattle were already routinely imported to the Dodecannese islands at earlier times from Asia Minor and were likely crossed with pre-existing autochthonous cattle of the short horn type. These Anatolian cattle were described as primitive, of low productivity and economic significance. Nisyros cattle were employed in agricultural work while producing meat and milk. Nowadays they are kept exclusively for their meat.
Morphological Traits
The Nisyros cattle population displays features of both the steppe and short horn cattle types. They are classified as medium size cattle with weights of 250-300 kg for mature bulls and 180-250 kg for cows. Height at the withers is 125 cm for bulls and 122 cm for cows.
Their conformation is that of the steppe type but with a more “square” outline (in terms of height / length ratio). Their horns are shorter than in steppe types and longer than short horn types.
Coat colour ranges from grey to red-black and more rarely solid red. All colour patterns occur in various combinations ranging from very dark to light shades. Many animals have a light coloured dorsal stripe and a mealy muzzle. Irrespective of coat colour all animals have dark skin, hooves and horn tips.
Population
Efforts are currently under way by “Amalthia Network” to increase their numbers. Presently there are a total of roughly 40 animals between two breeders. The population is classified as ‘Critical’.