Banteng (Bos javanicus) 

Habitat:

Dense forest and bamboo jungles in Asia and countries such as Indochina, Borneo, Java, and the Malay Peninsula.

Description:

Mature males have a blue-black coat in colour, while females and juveniles are reddish brown with a dark dorsal stripe. The build is slightly smaller to that of domestic cattle, with a rather slender neck and small head. The horns of females are short, tightly curved and point inward at the tips, whereas the males have long, upwardly arching horns connected by a horn-like bald patch on the forehead. Both sexes have the characteristics of white ‘stockings’ on their lower legs, a white rump and muzzle, and white spots above the eyes. A gentle hump exists above the shoulders, and a slight ridge runs along the back. They can stand at approximately 1.55m at the shoulder and weigh from between 600 – 800kgs.

 

Status:

Endangered

Interesting facts:

  • Banteng means “old bull” in Indonesian and are also referred to as Bali cattle.
  • Group Structure: Banteng live in herds of 2 to 40 animals, usually led by an older cow and a single mature male.
  • The male’s horns can grow up to 75cm in length.
  • Diet: Banteng graze and browse mainly feeding on grasses, bamboo, leaves, fruits and young branches of woody shrubs, depending upon the season and availability.
  • Where human activity is predominant Banteng usually adopt a nocturnal lifestyle except when kept in captivity where their safety is assured.
  • Members of a herd will thump the ground with their front hooves if they are threatened and snort when alarmed.
  • Banteng are very social and often are observed licking each other, strengthening the bond with the other individuals in the herd.
  • Only known wild population of Banteng exist solely in the Coburg Peninsula in the Northern Territory, the first Banteng were introduced to Australia in 1849.
  • Lifespan: 20 - 26 years.

 

 

 

Banteng Population Distribution Map
Banteng Population Distribution Map