Knickers the Giant Cow: Australia’s Bovine Behemoth Captures Global Attention

Meet Knickers, the colossal cow from Western Australia who has taken the internet by storm. Towering at an astonishing 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 meters) tall and weighing an incredible 3,086 pounds (1.4 tonnes), Knickers is no ordinary bovine — she’s a true giant among cattle.

Knickers is a Holstein Friesian, a breed known for its dairy production, but her size far exceeds that of her peers. In fact, she is so massive that no abattoir in Australia is equipped to process her. As a result, Knickers has been granted an unexpected retirement, spared from the fate of most commercial cattle.

“She’s just too big to handle,” said her owner, Geoff Pearson. “None of the facilities would accept her, so she gets to live out her days here on the farm.”

What makes Knickers even more striking is the way she towers over the other cows in the herd, looking more like a gentle giant than a farm animal. Her sheer size has made her a viral sensation, with millions of people around the world sharing her story and marveling at her photos.

Originally purchased as a “coach” cow to lead other cattle, Knickers quickly stood out — literally. While Holstein Friesians can grow large, Knickers’ size is highly unusual and has baffled even experienced breeders.

Veterinarians say that while her massive frame could pose mobility risks in older age, she currently appears healthy and well-adjusted.

Now living a peaceful life in the paddocks of Lake Preston, Western Australia, Knickers continues to draw fans both online and in person. Her story is a reminder that sometimes, being too big for the system can turn out to be a lucky break.