JAVA BANTENG
Bos javanicus
DESCRIPTION
The Java Banteng (Bos javanicus) is a wild cattle species native to the Indonesian island of Java. It is characterized by its robust build and distinctive coloration, which varies from reddish-brown to dark brown.
FUN FACTS
- Java Banteng are considered a symbol of wildlife conservation in Indonesia | They are closely related to domestic cattle and are sometimes used in local cultural practices | Their population is critically low, making them one of the rarest wild cattle species
QUICK INFO
Lifespan15-20 years in the wild, up to 25 in captivity
Average Weight300-600 kg
Average Length2.0-2.5 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuregroup — typically found in small herds of females and their young, with males often solitary or in small bachelor groups.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks depending on environmental conditions
- Habitat
- They inhabit tropical forests, grasslands, and open woodlands. Java Banteng are often found in areas with abundant vegetation and water sources.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Grassland
- Native Range
- Endemic to the island of Java, Indonesia.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- Indonesia
- Diet
- Java Banteng are herbivores, primarily grazing on grasses, leaves, and shrubs. They may also consume fruits and other vegetation when available.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, leaves
- Social Structure
- group — typically found in small herds of females and their young, with males often solitary or in small bachelor groups.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-15
- Territorial
- 0
300-600 kg
Weight
2.0-2.5 m
Length
1.5-1.8 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- reddish-brown to dark brown with lighter markings
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are larger and have more pronounced horns than females.
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in the wild, up to 25 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 285 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-4 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, with peaks depending on environmental conditions
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently declining due to habitat loss and hunting.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Less than 1,000 individuals
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to agriculture and urbanization, as well as poaching for meat and trophies.
- Predators
- Humans are the primary threat; natural predators are minimal due to their size.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can use their size and strength to defend against threats, and they may also flee to dense vegetation.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon