Meet Dave, an Asian miniature zebu, who is the latest addition to the animal charity Artisan Rare Breeds - and one of the rarest cows in the world.

The Dartford charity aims to preserve endangered animals that are either listed as rare or are critically endangered.

Dave was born yesterday to mum and dad, Crystal and Mungo.

Charity director Wayne May said: “He was born at 4.47am and he is our first one we have had born that is a pure breed.”

Mr May, pictured with Dave below, said there were fewer than 3,000 of them left in the world. Dave is believed to be the 49th pure breed to be born in Europe.

“They are rare because they are of very little use in the modern day farming world as they are so small,” said Mr May.

“It is one of the world’s smallest cows. He should grow to be about 4ft high.

“They are one of the oldest breeds of cattle too.”

Speaking about the importance of protecting the animal, Mr May said: “If no one does anything to conserve them, then they will become extinct.

“People have been cross breeding them with other breeds of cows just for petting zoos.

“But a pure breed Asian miniature zebu is a conservationist and collector’s choice.”

“It is one of the world’s smallest cows. He should grow to be about 4ft high" - Wayne May

The calf was given his name as a thank you to sponsor and donator, Dave Haynes.
Mr May added: “Dave has been raising funds and selling raffle tickets for the last three months. He has been out checking on the cows late at night as well, so it is the least we could do.

“He was over the moon when we asked him.”

To find out more about Artisan Rare Breeds visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/artisan.rarebreeds.