Rare 'panda cow' born in northern Colorado

[January 03, 2011]  CAMPION, Colo. (AP) -- A rare miniature cow with markings similar to a panda bear was born on a farm in northern Colorado.

The so-called "panda cow" born in Larimer County is thought to be one of only about 24 in the world.

The (Loveland) Reporter-Herald reports the male calf named Ben was born Friday morning. His mother is a Lowline Angus cow.

Farmer Chris Jessen raises miniature cattle and also owns a miniature kangaroo on his hobby farm.

The miniature panda cow is the result of genetic manipulation. A white belt encircles the animal's midsection, and the cow has a white face with black ovals around the eyes, giving it a panda-like appearance.

The mini-cattle are bred solely as pets. Jessen says panda calves can sell for $30,000.

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Information from: Loveland Daily Reporter-Herald, http://www.reporterherald.com/

[Associated Press]

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