As an expert in the field of animal husbandry, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question about the gender of cows.

Cows are not all female; this is a common misconception. The term "cow" specifically refers to a mature female bovine that has given birth to at least one calf. Before a female bovine has given birth, she is referred to as a "heifer." So, a heifer is a young female cow that has not yet had her first calf. Once she gives birth, she transitions into the category of a cow.

On the other hand, the term "bull" is used to describe a male bovine that is capable of breeding. Bulls are often used for breeding purposes in cattle herds to impregnate cows and heifers, thereby ensuring the continuation of the herd. Male bovines that have been castrated, however, are known as "steers" or "oxen" (with "oxen" often used to refer to a team of working animals). These castrated males are typically raised for meat production, as they tend to have a more desirable body composition for consumption.

It's important to note that cattle are raised for various purposes, including dairy production, meat production, and as draft animals for work. In dairy farming, the focus is on female cattle, as they produce milk. However, male calves are also born on dairy farms, and they are either raised for veal production or used for breeding if they are of suitable genetic quality.

In summary, the bovine species includes both male and female individuals. The term "cow" is specifically used for female bovines that have given birth, while "heifer" refers to young females that have not yet had a calf. Male bovines are called "bulls" when they are of breeding age and capable of reproduction, and "steers" or "oxen" when they have been castrated and are not used for breeding.

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Are all cows female? ... A cow is a female that has had at least one calf. A heifer is a female that has not yet had a calf; she becomes a cow after her first calf is born. A bull is a male that is able to breed.read more >>