HERITAGE DAIRY CATTLE

Dexter cattle are among the smallest breeds of cattle in the world. The Dexter is a dual-purpose breed that is hardy, forage‑efficient, and has excellent maternal qualities. As with other dual‑purpose breeds, the quantity of milk produced varies among strains; those strains selected for dairying produce more milk, while those that have been selected for beef produce less.

Cows/Bulls: 700-900lbs(avg)

Dexter Cattle Breed Abstract

The Guernsey breed is a dairy breed originating on the Isle of Guernsey in the Channel Islands. Cows are noted for their quiet dispositions. A distinctive characteristic of the breed is the golden color of its milk, which results from exceptionally high levels of carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A.Traditionally the breed was a good grazer, able to produce on quality pastures, and adaptable to a variety of climates and conditions.

Cows: 1,400lbs(avg)/ Bulls: 2,000lbs(avg)

Guernsey Breed Abstract

Kerry cattle are indigenous to Ireland and are one of the oldest European breeds of cattle. They are active grazers and browsers, hardy and long-lived, often continuing to be productive milking cattle into their teens. Kerry cows are robust mothers that have little to no difficulty calving. Kerry milk is also particularly well suited for cheese production

Cows: 800lbs(avg)/ Bulls: 1,000lbs(avg)

Kerry Breed Abstract

Devon cattle come from England, where the breed was developed over several centuries. Devons were originally a tri-purpose breed, but as the market multi-purpose animals dwindled, many began selecting the Devon for beef qualities. Those that continued selecting for milk, meat, and draft power led to the development of the American Milking Devon, unique to the United States.

Cows: 1,100lbs(avg)/ Bulls: 1,600lbs(avg)

Milking Devon Breed Abstract

Early in the 1900s, the Shorthorn breed was formally split into a beef type, called Beef Shorthorn/Shorthorn, and a dairy type called Milking Shorthorn (now called Heritage Shorthorn – Native). Most breeders favored selection for beef, leading to the decline in numbers of the Heritage Shorthorn – Native. The Heritage Shorthorn – Native performs well for grass­based dairying, as they are forage efficient, healthy, long­lived, and productive, with the additional value of high quality beef.

Cows: 1,200-1,400lbs/ Bulls: 2,000lbs(avg)

Heritage Shorthorn – Native Breed Abstract

The Pineywoods is one of the oldest breeds of cattle in the United States, descending from Spanish cattle brought to the Americas beginning in the early 1500s. The Pineywoods breed was shaped primarily by agricultural and environmental conditions in Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, and other parts of the southeastern United States. The breed is a dual-purpose breed, with various strains selected more heavily for certain traits.

Cows: 600-800lbs/ Bulls: 800-1,200lbs

Pineywoods Breed Abstract

The Randall Lineback is a purebred remnant of lineback-patterned cattle once common in New England.Historically, Linebacks were multi-purpose, used for dairy, beef, and oxen, and served as an integral part of rural New England life for several centuries. Today, the breed is being selected for both beef and dairy qualities.

Randall Lineback Breed Abstract

The Red Poll is a dual‑purpose breed developed in eastern England in the early 1800s.Though their dual‑purpose qualities were valuable, American breeders have emphasized the beef characteristics of the Red Poll, especially since the 1960s with the Holstein’s dominance in the dairy industry. Red Polls have quiet dispositions and they are an excellent choice for rotational grazing and other systems where ease of handling is required.

Cows: 1.200lbs(avg)/ Bulls: 1,800lbs(avg)

Red Poll Breed Abstract