Hereford Genetics

The beef cattle breed is renowned for its white face, crest, dewlap and underline, the Hereford has grown in popularity in recent years due to its high yielding quality beef production capable from grass alone, without the need for concentrates making it extremely popular for efficiency of production.

Hereford Characteristics

The Hereford has taken its name from the county of Herefordshire, the breed has evolved in the agricultural region since the 1600’s. The beef breed of cattle with its origins in Herefordshire, due to its popularity for quality and efficiency of production can be found in over 50 countries and there are more than five million pedigree animals.

Herefords typically have thick horns that curve down to the side of its head, but they can be bred, horned or polled. They are an adaptable breed of cattle with a docile nature, they are good foragers with vigour, fast growing with high quality beef.

The breed is also known for its longevity with bulls still having the potential to breed profitably up to or beyond 12 years, and females having the potential to breed for 15 years or more.

Hereford bulls stand around 152cm at the shoulder and weigh 1000-1200kg while the cows stand around 140cm and weigh 600-800kg.

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Hereford Statistics

• Easy calving; making them popular with dairy farmers for using on maiden heifers
• Crossbred cattle will have a white face
• Excellent foraging ability and able to produce quality beef from grass
• High yielding, efficient beef production
• Reknowned for their natural fertility and breeding longevity
• Hereford’s are renowned for their docility

Breed Society: http://www.herefordcattle.org/