Testing: the secrets of ferocity

The fighting bull differs from other bovine species in its unique morphological and psychological traits. Ferocity was originally a defensive character trait that evolved by selection into a conduct unique and exclusive to fighting bulls.

Since the introduction of the first breed in the late 18^th century, this selection has been carried out by a test, known as the tienta, which separates the bulls to be used for reproduction and rearing.

Females are tested completely, i.e. through full-scale fighting. Male bulls are not fought in order to prevent bulls that are not selected as studs from fighting before a bullfight or apprentice bullfight. In the tienta, the breeder stands out as a sort of alchemist in search of ferocity.