Texas Longhorn Is The National State Animal of Texas. The Texas longhorn became the Official State Animal symbol of Texas in 1995. Texas State Animal Longhorn is a hybrid of Spanish and English cattle. And it is known for its extremely long horns, tough hooves, and general hardiness. Longhorn became a symbol of the Texas cattle drives in the 1860s and 1870s. After the end of the open range, State Animal of Texas Longhorns was almost bred out of existence but was saved by breeders in the 1920s for exhibit in Texas state parks.
Soon after, ranchers rediscovered the tough and well-adapted cattle and they have been a mainstay of Texas ranching operations ever since. The Longhorn Other official mammal state symbols include the armadillo (designated in 1927) and the Mexican free-tailed bat (1995). As Longhorns migrated throughout the North American continent during the four hundred years between the 16th and mid 19th centuries, Texas State Animal evolved through a process of natural selection.
Only the strongest of those cattle, (the ones which could travel very long distances, often with little feed or water, and could efficiently utilize scant grazing resources while still breeding and raising healthy calves each year), could survive and contribute to the gene pool. State Animal of Texas strengths of the breed reflect the rugged natural survival requirements they faced. Coincidentally, many of these traits are what make them very special and highly desirable cattle in today’s environment.
State Animal of Texas longhorn is known for its distinct color. It can be many different colors, but the most common is a combination of dark red and white. Texas State Animal longhorn calves can be completely different colors than their mothers, making it difficult to determine whose calf is whose. Texas Longhorns are considered to be a medium-sized breed of cattle. Texas State Animal bulls can weigh anywhere between 1500 and 2200 lbs and cows weigh between 850 and 1300 lbs. They’re not known for being very large or muscular, but some breeders prioritize size over others.