Buyer question
How long do Hereford cattle live?
Our Animal Library gives the Hereford cattle a lifespan of 15–20 years.
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.
- Hardiness
- 4 out of 5 (Thrives on forage)
- Origin
- Herefordshire, England
- Best fit
- Small farms, grass-based beef
- Upkeep
- 3 out of 5 (Watch eyes and udders)
- Temperament
- Very docile
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.