Breed of Cattle
If you have been following along with our homesteader guide to cattle you will have already contacted your county extension office and be well informed about the local legislation and requirements regarding raising cattle. Hopefully you have also purchased and read through several of the guides recommended thus far. If not, it’s okay! Reading through this entire series will provide a great “Bird’s Eye View” of your upcoming journey and responsibility with cattle. With all of that out of the way, let’s roll up our sleeves and dig into the fun stuff!
Determining the Types of Cattle that Belong on Your Homestead
Miniature breeds might be just the thing you are looking for, especially if you have a smaller homestead and don’t feel that you can provide adequate spacing for a larger variety. Miniature Jersey’s are one of the most popular breeds, and their diminutive stature makes them ideal for anyone short on space. They can produce seven or more gallons of milk per day, which is undoubtedly more than your family will be able to consume! They range in cost from $1750 to $3500.
Miniature Jersey’s are also great for production of beef. Rather than providing more than the typical family could eat during the recommended freezer life, the Mini Jersey will provide just the right amount of tender, fine-grained beef. Many farmers also report that the Mini provides better conversion of feed, usually needing only a third to a half as much nutrition to get to a slaughter-ready size. This might not be impressive, but realize that your full sized cattlewill weigh slightly less than twice as much as your mini and much of the beef could go to waste if it is only for your own family.
Thinking About Other Breeds of Cattle?
Breeds of Cattle
There are over 800 different breeds of cattle. While many are not suitable for your homestead, there are too many for us to consider in this short guide. Consider utilizing some of the resources listed below or contacting your local county extension office for more information about the breeds of cattle most suitable in your area. Their different needs will determine whether or not you are capable of raising them. The type of enterprise you choose to run will determine which breeds you should consider. With the information provided so far, you are well on your way to making a decision regarding cattle on your homestead.
~jsfordahl
