Hereford Cattle: Breed Profile
Red body, white face and a reputation for easy keeping on grass.
Hereford cattle are easy to recognize: a red body, a white face, and white on the underline, brisket and legs. They are one of the oldest British beef breeds and are still used around the world, especially in grass-based systems and in crossbreeding programs.
History
The breed is named for Herefordshire, on the English border with Wales, where it was developed in the 1700s and early 1800s from local cattle. Herefords were imported to the United States in the early nineteenth century, with Henry Clay often credited for an early importation to Kentucky in 1817. The American Hereford Association was founded in 1881. A polled line, bred without horns, was developed in the United States in the early twentieth century and now has a large following as Polled Hereford.
Purpose
Herefords are a beef breed valued for hardiness, docility and the ability to gain on forage. Many ranchers use Hereford bulls on other breeds to produce crossbred calves with the white face as a visible marker. The breed has a reputation for fertility and mothering.
Where the breed stands today
Herefords are not rare. They remain popular, though in many regions black cattle dominate the market. The breed's association runs a junior program, the National Junior Hereford Association, and many local breeders support youth exhibitors.
Showing Herefords at 4-H and FFA
Pros
- Dedicated classes. Large shows usually have Hereford and Polled Hereford classes.
- Gentle disposition. Herefords are generally known for good temperament, which suits younger exhibitors.
- Distinctive look. The white face and red coat stand out in a ring of black cattle.
- Junior support. The national association offers shows, scholarships and leadership programs.
- Reasonable cost. Good Herefords can be more affordable than top Angus prospects in some areas.
Cons
- Market preference. In some regions buyers and judges lean toward black-hided cattle, and Hereford steers may face a harder road in the market class.
- Fewer entries. Small shows may combine Herefords into a mixed class.
- Sun and eye issues. White faces can be prone to eye problems in some conditions, so watch for irritation and provide shade.
- Fitting specifics. The white hair requires careful washing and grooming to look clean.
What to look for in a Hereford project animal
Look for the breed's typical red body and white face, along with a deep, thick body and strong bone. Herefords should move freely on sound feet. For steers, choose a calf with good muscling and a clean, balanced frame. For heifers, look at udder development, structure and femininity. If you want a Polled Hereford, confirm the registration papers, because the polled and horned lines are registered separately.
Questions to ask a breeder
- Is the calf registered as Hereford or Polled Hereford?
- How was she raised, and how is her temperament?
- What does she weigh, and what is her growth history?
- Has she been exposed to the clipper, blower and wash rack?
- Will she be eligible for the junior classes I plan to enter?
Take notes and compare more than one breeder before you decide.
Bottom line
Herefords are a calm, hardy, historic breed with a respected junior program. They are a good choice for exhibitors who want a classic breed with a distinctive look and strong breed support.
Learn more about showing in How Breeding Classes and Market Classes Work. Find supplies and vets through agriculture.directory, and for a lighter read on beef country, farm.fm has The World of Beef Cattle.