Maiwa

Maiwa yak is a well-known Chinese yak breed from the alpine rangelands of northwestern Sichuan, especially areas of Aba Prefecture such as Hongyuan and Zoige. It represents the pastoral yak of cold, high meadows where herds move across seasonal grazing and rely on native grasses and sedges. Maiwa yaks are generally medium to large, heavily coated, and hardy, with dark coats common, and they are kept for milk, meat, hair, hides, and packing work.

Maiwa herds are usually run in extensive systems, so good management depends on pasture timing, protection of calves during harsh weather, and enough hay or other reserve feed for winter gaps. Dairy use is typically seasonal; milk may be made into butter, cheese, or other local products rather than produced year-round like a specialized dairy cow. Breeders working with Maiwa ancestry should preserve the breed's range fitness while selecting for calm handling, sound udders, and calves that grow well without heavy grain feeding.

Colors: Golden, Golden Royal, Golden Trim, Imperial Black, Imperial Trim, Native Black, Native Black Trim, Royal, White