Rouge du Roussillon Sheep

Domestic animals are those animals that are of direct use to humans in some way. They include livestock such as cattle, pets like cats and dogs, and even semi-domesticated wild animals like red deer and trout. Present-day domestic animals are the descendants of wild species that human beings saw a use for. Although the domestication process was different for each species, the outcome was the same: a few individuals ended up in the hands of humans and were gradually bred to better meet our requirements. Sought-after characteristics included, for example, less aggression in dogs, or cows that produced greater quantities of milk. This Tierpark Berlin blog explains why some domesticated animals are now endangered and why it is important to conserve domestic species: Helping the animals that help us – Where do we get our tasty cheese, warm socks, and sizzling sausages?

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