Surti Buffalo Information
Introduction to Surti Buffalo The Surti buffalo is one of India’s most efficient dairy breeds, known for its calm temperament, high milk efficiency, and excellent feed conversion.Originating from the Surat and Kaira districts of Gujarat, this breed is highly preferred by small and medium farmers because: It gives good-quality milk Milk contains 7–8% fat It requires very low maintenance It adapts well to hot climates Surti buffaloes are famous for being docile, friendly, and easy to handle, making them ideal for beginners in dairy farming. Origin & History of Surti Buffalo Native to Surat, Kaira, and Baroda regions of Gujarat One of India’s oldest and purest dairy breeds Traditionally raised by local milk cooperatives of Gujarat Highly used in Amul belt for quality milk production This breed developed naturally through selective breeding, focusing on milk yield and calm temperament. Physical Characteristics (How to Identify a Surti Buffalo?) Body Color Usually jet black Some animals may have brownish or grey shades White markings on forehead or legs are acceptable Horns Typical sickle-shaped horns Curved downward and then upward like a crescent This horn pattern is the key identification mark Eyes & Face Eyes are bright and expressive Face is straight or slightly narrow Body Structure Medium-sized body Smooth and thin skin Well-shaped udder Strong legs Excellent heat tolerance Tail Long tail with a black switch Surti buffaloes are lighter than Murrah and Jaffarabadi but are more fuel-efficient (less feed, more milk). Milk Production Capacity Category Output Daily Milk Yield 6–12 liters/day Peak Yield 14 liters/day Lactation Period 250–300 days Milk Fat Content 7–8% SNF 9–10% Surti milk is thick, creamy, and ideal for making curd, paneer, and dairy sweets. Surti Buffalo Price in India Prices depend on milk yield, age, location, and purity. Milk Capacity Price Range (India) 4–6 liters/day ₹45,000–₹65,000 6–10 liters/day ₹70,000–₹1,00,000 10–14 liters/day ₹1,00,000–₹1,50,000 Pregnant High-Lineage ₹1,20,000–₹1,80,000 Region-wise trend: Gujarat – best price & purest breed Maharashtra – slightly higher Rajasthan – moderate UP, MP – high price du Feeding Management (Complete Diet Plan) Green Fodder Maize Jowar Lucerne Napier grass Hybrid bajra Dry Fodder Groundnut cake Wheat straw Cottonseed cake Concentrates 1 kg concentrate per 2.5 liters of milk Mineral mixture – 50 g/day Salt – 30 g/day Water Requirement 50–60 liters/day More in summer due to heat Special Feeds for High Milk Yield Yeast culture Bypass protein feed Oilseed cakes Balanced green + dry fodder Surti buffaloes convert feed into milk very efficiently, which reduces overall dairy cost. Breeding & Reproduction First heat: 24–30 months Ideal breeding age: 2.5–3 years Calving interval: 14–18 months Gestation period: 305 days Lifelong calves: 7–9 Heat signs are easily visible — tail lifting, vulva swelling, and restlessness. Housing & Management Well-ventilated shed Sloped floor for drainage Cooling system in summer (fans + foggers) 35 sq. ft. covered space 60 sq. ft. open area Clean water at all times Surti buffaloes thrive best in semi-intensive or open housing systems. Common Health Issues & Precautions Surti is a hardy breed but may face: Mastitis Parasitic infections FMD Hoof issues in wet floors Vaccination Schedule FMD – 6 months HS – yearly BQ – yearly Deworming – every 3 months How to Increase Milk Production in Surti Buffalo Provide high-quality green fodder Balanced mineral mixture daily Maintain a calm environment Follow clean milking practices Ensure proper heat detection Provide dry bedding and clean flooring Add oilseed cakes to increase fat The breed gives maximum results when kept stress-free.
