The Pantaneiro is a small cattle breed that is native to the Pantanal region of Brazil, where it has been raised for over three hundred years. The breed was originally descended from Spanish cattle brought to the Americas during the colonization of the Río de la Plata basin and was later influenced by breeds of Portuguese origin. The Pantaneiro is well adapted to the extreme climatic conditions of the Pantanal region, which is characterized by high temperatures and periods of flooding, high humidity, and drought. It is considered to be rustic, hardy, and capable of surviving periods of food scarcity. The breed is now at risk of extinction, with a population of less than 1000 reported in 2003. The coat of the Pantaneiro is short, brown or reddish-brown in color, and has a tendency to lighten on the back.