The Hereford breed is believed to have descended from small red cattle that existed in Roman Britain centuries ago. Typically, they are red with white patches, and calves sired by Hereford bulls almost always feature the distinctive white head, which many farmers find advantageous for easy identification in the market.

Many Hereford cattle are naturally polled due to selective breeding practices, which can be beneficial for farmers concerned about the effort and stress associated with dehorning. This is particularly important if horned livestock will be kept in close proximity to other animals.

On average, Hereford bulls weigh about 1,200 kg, while cows typically weigh around 800 kg. The breed thrives in temperate climates, such as those found in Britain and Ireland, where the weather is damp and lacks extreme temperature fluctuations.

Hereford cattle are known for their excellent mothering instincts, providing strong protection for their calves in areas where predators may be present. This can be advantageous for farmers worried about the safety of new calves, although aggressive behavior from protective dams towards visitors can sometimes pose risks. Bulls, regardless of breed, should always be treated with caution. For more guidance, refer to our article on Bull Safety.

The Traditional Hereford, recognized as the original strain, is classified as a ‘minority’ breed of genetic importance, highlighting the need to preserve its genes for future generations.

These cattle have a long lifespan, which helps reduce herd replacement costs for farmers. Herefords are known for desirable traits such as early maturity and high fertility. Their gestation period is shorter than average for cattle of their size, making it easier for Irish farmers to manage pregnancies, thereby lowering associated costs. The breed also has a low calf mortality rate, which is reassuring for farmers concerned about calving complications. However, Herefords can be susceptible to vaginal prolapse, which may pose challenges during calving. Improved nutrition has been linked to reduced incidences of prolapse, but it’s essential to consult a veterinarian if any issues arise.

Hereford cows consistently wean one calf per year, even under less-than-ideal forage conditions. Conception typically occurs from around two years of age.

The temperament of Hereford cattle is generally docile and easygoing, facilitating herd management, which is particularly beneficial for farmers working alone. Dams are also known for their ease of milking, making the process straightforward.

However, Herefords can inherit some genetic issues. Eye cancer is common in cattle from sunnier regions, but it may not pose a significant threat to Irish cattle due to the lower levels of solar radiation. Sunburn can be an issue for Herefords in Ireland, especially on their pale udders, which can be affected by intense summer sunlight.

Irish farmers benefit from several Certified Hereford Schemes across the country, which are premium beef programs offering bonus prices for Hereford beef. This enables the breed to be marketed as ‘high quality’ by Bord Bia.

The average finishing age for Hereford cattle is approximately 18 to 20 months. According to Teagasc, the same amount of feed can produce excellent beef yields for around 75 Hereford cattle, compared to only 50 animals of other common crossbreeds. Herefords efficiently convert forage-based diets into muscle, gaining weight easily and producing high-quality carcasses.

For farmers with smaller operations, Herefords may be particularly suitable. Teagasc recommends a stocking rate of 1 acre per animal sold each year for the spring system with Hereford crosses, compared to 1.2 acres for continental crosses.