Miniature Herefords are a smaller, more efficient version of today's full-sized Herefords. They are very similar to the Herefords of the 1960's, but a tad smaller. Miniature Herefords are purebred Herefords that are free of the dwarf gene and are registered through the American Hereford Association.
The Miniature Hereford breed was started by Rust and Roy Largent of Fort Davis, Texas in 1970. The Largents were revolting against the industry trend for larger, taller, less efficient cattle. The Largent's mission was to develop the perfect beef cow.
So what are the advantages of the Miniature Hereford?
High fertility
High feed conversion
Easy to grass finish - we feed only fresh pasture, hay and mineral supplements
Gentle disposition and easy to handle
Calving ease - they need very little assistance and have calves generally weighing 40 to 60 pounds
Hardy and easily adaptable to various climates
Do not need large cattle handling equipment and are easier on fences, gates and pastures - the only special equipment that we have is a head gate, which is helpful, but not essential
Great for freezer beef - tender meat due to genetics, muscle structure and early maturity. One Miniature Hereford will feed an average family of four and will fit nicely in your freezer. The cuts of meat from a Miniature Hereford are more in line with recommended portion sizes.
More cattle per acre - you can put approximately twice as many Miniature Herefords per acre