In rail transport, a cow-calf is a set of diesel switcher locomotives. The set usually is a pair; some three-unit sets were built, but this was rare. A cow is equipped with a cab; a calf is not. The two are coupled together and equipped with multiple unit train control so that both locomotives can be operated from the single cab.
EMD TR1 diesel locomotive with two units—cow and calf
This locomotive and slug of the Iowa Interstate Railroad resemble a cow-calf set, but the slug has no engines of its own; this allows it to be cut down for better visibility.
These EMD FP9 locomotives also resemble a cow and calf, but the B unit is designed for mainline speeds, and to be detachable and operate with any other locomotive.
A Belt Railway of Chicago cow-calf set in 1985
A switcher locomotive, shunter locomotive, or shifter locomotive is a locomotive used for maneuvering railway vehicles over short distances. Switchers do not usually move trains over long distances, instead they typically assemble trains in order for another locomotive to take over. Switchers often operate in a railyard or make short transfer runs. They may serve as the primary motive power on short branch lines or switching and terminal railroads.
CZ Loko Effishunter
Stadler Rail Ee 922
A diesel switcher in Sakaki, Japan
An electric switcher in Salzburg, Austria