List of types of cattle in Texas and what you need to know about them.
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The climate, the topography as well as the superb geographical position in the state of Texas makes it the ideal place for the proliferation of life. This fact has not escaped human attention, and that is why Texas is the prime location for anybody serious in the business of cattle breeding. Texas has proven over the years to be the location of choice for the cattle themselves who thrive in the sparsely watered ground, the mild to average weather conditions, the abundant vegetation, and the absence of disease that characterizes the state of Texas. This has just been another case of a man copying the example that he sees in nature. In this article, we want to highlight some of the breeds of cattle that there are in the state of Texas.
Types Of Cattle In Texas
From the world-famous Texas Longhorns to coal-black Angus, to snow-white Charolais, to red and white Herefords, and then wound up by the floppy-eared, speckled Brahmas, here is a rundown of the types or breeds of cattle in Texas. Enjoy!
1. Texas Longhorn
This is probably the most popular breed of cattle in the world. while that may be debatable, there is no doubt and no debate in the fact that it is the most popular breed in America and the signature animal of the state of Texas. The most stand-out feature of the Texas Longhorn is the horns for which it is known. The horns of a Texas Longhorn can spread out up to seven feet wide. The Texas Longhorn is a success of evolution, a well-established breed of cattle that has its roots stretching far back into the history of America.
Ancestors of the breed were introduced to the New World in 1493 when Spanish discoverer Christopher Columbus landed in what is now the Caribbean Islands. As the Spanish moved up north, they moved with their cattle, and in the 1800s, the cattle with Longhorns arrived in the area that is now the state of Texas.
These cattle spent many years roaming around freely and were largely considered feral until they started being domesticated in the 19th century. Texas Longhorns have acquired a reputation for being heat-tolerant, hardy, and mobile animals with strong, long legs and longhorns. They can come in various colors, including grey, black, brown, speckled, and white.
Longhorns are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in challenging environments. Their ability to graze on a wide variety of vegetation, including tough and sparse grasses, made them well-suited for the rugged landscapes of Texas. They are also known for their resistance to diseases and parasites, which further contributed to their popularity among early Texas ranchers.
Despite their iconic status, Longhorns faced a decline in numbers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to crossbreeding efforts and the shift towards more commercialized cattle breeds. However, thanks to the efforts of dedicated breeders and enthusiasts, the Longhorn breed experienced a revival in the mid-20th century, and their numbers have since rebounded.
Today, Longhorns can be found not only on ranches in Texas but also across the United States and even internationally. Their distinctive appearance and historical significance continue to make them a favorite among ranchers, collectors, and fans of Western culture.
2. Black Angus
The Angus cattle breed is a popular breed of cattle in Texas and the whole of America. But there is some interesting piece of history surrounding how they came to be in America. Scottish cattle breeder George Grant is credited with the introduction of the Angus breed into America. He brought four Angus bulls from his homeland in Scotland back to the middle of the Kansas prairie in the year 1873. When two of the Grant bulls were highlighted in the fall of 1873 at the Kansas City (Missouri) Livestock Exposition, they produced varying reactions such as shock and laughter. Some cattlemen dismissed these cattle as “freaks.”
In those years Shorthorn cattle breeds were the dominant and most popular types of cattle so the naturally hornless and solid black Angus bulls certainly looked strange. But the advantages of cattle without horns started to show; people started to see that these bulls were less aggressive and could be stocked in larger numbers on the same land size, and so between 1878 and 1883, their acceptance grew, and then the Angus cattle breed exploded in popularity in the United States.
Subsequently, more than 1,200 Angus cattle were imported from Scotland in the following couple of years. The popularity of the Angus cattle breed has not stopped in America, however, the Angus breed is the largest registered breed of cattle in the world.
One of the reasons for their popularity is the exceptional quality of their meat. Black Angus beef is highly regarded for its marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor. The well-distributed intramuscular fat, commonly known as marbling, plays a crucial role in enhancing the taste and juiciness of the meat. It also contributes to a moist and tender texture, making Black Angus beef a sought-after choice for steak lovers and chefs alike.
Black Angus cattle are known for their efficiency in converting forage into lean muscle, making them an economically viable option for ranchers. Their ability to thrive on both grass and grain diets further adds to their appeal.
In addition to their exceptional meat quality, Black Angus cattle also possess distinct physical characteristics. They are typically solid black in color, with a naturally polled (hornless) trait that simplifies handling and reduces the risk of injuries during transportation and handling.
The popularity of Black Angus cattle has led to the establishment of various breeding programs and associations dedicated to preserving and improving the breed. The Texas Angus Association, for example, plays a pivotal role in promoting the breed’s excellence and ensuring the highest standards of breeding within the state.
3. Charolais
The word is pronounced (cha ro lay), and this is one of the oldest of the French cattle breeds. The impressive history of the Charolais goes back as early as 878 A.D. when this breed of cattle steadily established itself as one of the most important breeds of cattle in France and a major breed of cattle in the world.
The Charolais cattle breed made its way across the Atlantic Ocean just after the conclusion of World War I, through the action of Jean Pugibet, a young Mexican industrialist who actually originated from France. It was him that brought some French Charolais cattle to his ranch in Mexico. As expected, the breed crossed the border legally into the United States in 1934. Charolais cattle naturally have horns and are white in color, but today’s breeders have managed to produce hornless ‘polled’ Charolais cattle.
4. Hereford
Herefords are a globally popular breed of cattle, with their main focus being their ability to multiply steadily. Hereford bulls are prized cattle for their breeding ability. Benjamin Tomkins is considered the founder of the breed. This famous breed of cattle traces its history to about 300 years ago when English farmers founded the breed in response to increased demand for beef which was created by Britain’s Industrial Revolution.
The Hereford breed is known for being a highly efficient and very fertile type of cattle. In the year 1817, Henry Clay brought the Hereford breed to the United States. But then Hereford characteristics were not established in the United States until U.S. cattlemen William H. Sotham and Erastus Corning established the first Hereford breeding herd to breed together and produce pure Hereford cattle in 1840. The usual Hereford color pattern is a red body with a white face. Sometimes the underparts, feet, and tip of the tail are also white. This breed may occasionally have a white feather pattern on the top of the neckline.
5. Brahman Cattle
As you can probably tell from the name, this breed of cattle originally came from India where it is revered as a symbol of worship. The Brahman breed was developed through centuries of inadequate food, diseases, exposition to insect pests, and inclement weather which can sometimes be a real threat in the tropics. As a result, these cattle have developed remarkable adaptations that have enabled them to survive. Brahman cattle can be identified by the large hump which they have over the top of the shoulder and neck, as well as their curved horns and floppy ears. this breed of cattle is also marked by excessive skin along the throat.
This breed of cattle can vary in color. Interestingly too is the fact that they naturally produce an oily secretion that repels insects. Although they’re a bit of confusion about the records, it is often quoted that the first Brahman cattle breed specimens were imported to the United States in the year 1849 by Dr. James Bolton Davis of South Carolina. Today, the Brahma breed of cattle is an important type of cattle, especially in the drier, parts of Texas, on desert lands that have been converted into cattle ranches.
One of the most striking features of Brahman cattle is their prominent hump, which serves as an adaptation to regulate body temperature. This hump is a fatty deposit that helps the cattle dissipate heat more efficiently, allowing them to endure the sweltering Texas summers with relative ease.
Another remarkable attribute of Brahman cattle is their loose, wrinkled skin. The folds in their skin aid in thermoregulation by increasing the surface area available for heat dissipation. This unique physical characteristic enables them to stay cooler and more comfortable in the oppressive Texas heat.
Besides their heat-resistant qualities, Brahman cattle are also highly adaptable to various forage and grazing conditions. They possess a remarkable ability to thrive in both lush grasslands and sparse pastures, making them an ideal choice for Texas ranchers facing fluctuating environmental conditions.
Beyond their physical attributes, Brahman cattle have proven to be hardy and disease-resistant, making them a valuable asset to the Texas cattle industry. Their resilience and ability to produce high-quality meat have made them a popular choice for beef production, contributing significantly to the state’s renowned beef industry.
Texas ranchers have embraced Brahman cattle wholeheartedly, recognizing their endurance, adaptability, and undeniable contribution to the region’s agricultural prosperity. These magnificent bovines have become an integral part of the Texan cultural fabric, embodying the spirit of resilience and thriving against all odds in the face of the unrelenting Texas heat.
6. Beefmaster cattle
When it comes to beef production, the Beefmaster cattle breed stands out as the ultimate choice for ranchers in the Lone Star State. Known for their exceptional meat quality and impressive growth rate, Beefmaster has a long-standing reputation as the go-to breed for maximizing beef production.
Originating in Texas in the early 1900s, Beefmasters were developed by crossing three distinct breeds – Brahman, Hereford, and Shorthorn. This deliberate combination resulted in a breed that inherited the best traits from each parent, making it well-suited for the demands of beef production.
One of the key advantages of Beefmaster cattle is their adaptability to the harsh Texas climate. With their Brahman heritage, they possess a remarkable tolerance to heat, humidity, and insects, which are common challenges faced by ranchers in this region. This allows Beefmasters to thrive in the often-unforgiving Texas environment, ensuring a successful and sustainable beef production operation.
Beefmasters excel in their ability to efficiently convert forage into meat. They have superior feed efficiency, meaning they can produce more beef per unit of feed compared to other breeds. This makes them a cost-effective choice for ranchers looking to maximize their profits.
In addition to their exceptional meat production capabilities, Beefmasters also exhibit excellent maternal instincts. This makes them an ideal choice for ranchers who prioritize both beef production and breeding. Their maternal characteristics contribute to higher weaning weights for their offspring, ensuring a strong foundation for future generations of beef production.
Beefmaster cattle display gentle and docile temperaments, making them easier to handle and manage on the ranch. Their calm demeanor not only reduces stress for both ranchers and the cattle themselves but also contributes to overall herd health and performance.
7. Santa Gertrudis cattle
When it comes to Texas cattle breeds, one name stands out as a true success story – Santa Gertrudis. This breed, known for its adaptability, resilience, and impressive meat quality, has deep roots in the Lone Star State and has made a significant impact on the cattle industry.
The story of Santa Gertrudis begins in the early 20th century when Captain Richard King of the famous King Ranch in South Texas embarked on a mission to create a new breed that could thrive in the region’s harsh climate. He sought to combine the traits of the hardy Brahman cattle, known for their heat tolerance, with the superior meat quality of the British Shorthorn breed.
After years of careful breeding and selection, Captain King and his team successfully developed the Santa Gertrudis breed. Named after the Santa Gertrudis Creek that flows through the King Ranch, these cattle quickly gained recognition for their exceptional attributes.
One of the key reasons for the Santa Gertrudis’ success is their adaptability. They are well-suited to the hot and humid climate of Texas, where temperatures often soar and rainfall can be unpredictable. These cattle have a natural resistance to heat stress, allowing them to thrive in challenging conditions and making them a top choice for ranchers in the state.
In addition to their adaptability, Santa Gertrudis cattle are renowned for their excellent meat quality. They have a well-marbled, flavorful beef that is highly sought after by consumers. This combination of adaptability and meat quality has made Santa Gertrudis a preferred breed not only in Texas but also across the United States and beyond.
Today, Santa Gertrudis cattle can be found on ranches throughout Texas, where they continue to play a vital role in the state’s cattle industry. Their impact extends beyond Texas borders, as they have been exported to countries around the world, further cementing their reputation as a successful Texas-bred breed.
Texas Cattle Breeds
Those are the types of Cattle in Texas, and we hope that you have found that information useful. Let us now leave you with some information about the Beef Industry in the state of Texas.
The state of Texas is one of the most important states in America as far as agriculture or the nation’s food security is concerned. Texas is not just a major producer of food in America, but also a major producer of food in the world. Texas is the 4th largest food producer (by value) in the United States. Eighty-six percent (86%) of Texas land is under some form of agricultural use, either crop or animal production. The largest cattle inventory ever recorded in Texas was in the year 1975, with about 16.6 million heads of cattle.
Today, the state of Texas has more cattle on feed than both the countries of Australia and Canada put together. Texas continues to be at the forefront of the development of techniques and ways of enhancing and improving cattle production throughout the world, meaning that the future of cattle production in Texas is bright indeed.