Buyer question
Are Hereford cattle good for beginners?
Yes: our Animal Library rates the Hereford cattle 5 out of 5 for beginners (classic starter breed).
Source: the Hereford cattle page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Hereford cattle in the Animal Library
The detail
Herefords were bred in England to turn grass into beef with little help. Owners get a red, white-faced cow known for docility, good feet and long working life, horned or polled depending on the line.
- Temperament
- Very docile
- Best fit
- Small farms, grass-based beef
- Docility
- 5 out of 5 (Among the calmest beef)
- Upkeep
- 3 out of 5 (Watch eyes and udders)
- Hardiness
- 4 out of 5 (Thrives on forage)
What to weigh
White faces and light skin raise the risk of pinkeye, cancer eye and sunburned udders. Choose animals with pigment around the eyes and plan for fly control.