Hérens cow fights draw in crowds of spectators serving as a standing tradition, in the Valais region, for nearly a century.
The Hérens breed of cattle is predominantly found in Valais. Is known for its nature. These cows, forming herds establish hierarchies as they migrate to the alpine pastures each spring.
The Eringer cow fights in Wallis stem from the need for the dominant cow to prove her authority during the summer to return as the reigning queen of the herd come fall.
Hérens cow alpine parade © Valais Promotion
During a folk festival, in Grächen 3,000 spectators gather to witness the spectacle of 600 kilogram cows engaging in competitions. The matches range from posturing to clashes with the cows charging through the arena amidst cheers from their owners.
The instinct to compete is a behavior, for these animals serving to establish hierarchy within the herd. If a cow opts out of a match there are no repercussions – they are not compelled to participate.
The Hérens cows owe their existence to these contests since the Hérens breed lacks appeal. Without these battles this breed might have faded into obscurity.
Rules for Hérens cow fights
The cows enter the ring together. Get to pick their opponents. Typically animals that lose three fights are out. If an animal doesn’t want to fight its counted as a loss. The herders, in the ring make sure the winning cows are brought together according to the judges orders and keep cows from interfering with fighting animals of their kind. The Hérens cow that beats all its rivals in its group wins.
Video of Hérens cow fights with tradition
Hérens cows in Valais fight for ranking…
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