* Calf: A young bovine, typically under a year old. They are still dependent on their mothers for milk and protection.
* Cow: A mature female bovine, typically over two years old. They are fully grown and able to reproduce.
Here's a breakdown of the key differences:
| Feature | Calf | Cow |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Under 1 year old | Over 2 years old |
| Size | Small | Large |
| Development | Still growing | Fully grown |
| Milk Dependence | Dependent on mother's milk | No longer dependent on milk |
| Reproductive Capability | Not able to reproduce | Able to reproduce |
| Purpose | Typically raised for meat or milk | Often used for milk production, meat production, or breeding |
It's important to note that the terms "cow" and "calf" can be used more broadly:
* Heifer: A young female bovine that has not yet given birth. This can be considered a type of cow.
* Bull: A mature male bovine.
* Steer: A male bovine that has been castrated.
So, while "cow" specifically refers to a mature female, it's often used in a broader sense to encompass any bovine that is not a calf.