Hello cattle peeps! :)

[ScrumblyFarms]

I'm new to this part of the forum, my DH and I just purchased 4 acres and we would like to have a cow or two. Mainly for milk to begin with, but we'd also like to look into raising some for beef as well.

We live in Fl and really don't know what breed to go with. Which is your favorite? Also, anyone know any breeders locally or should I just keep looking on CL? Thanks!

[genebo]

Dexter cattle are perfect for your size acreage.

Look up Ms. Schueler in Keystone Heights, FL.

She can tell you all about them.

[linn]

I second what genebo said. Love those Dexters.

[bknthesdle]

I love the tarentaise cattle!! Tried to talk hubby into a few but he is set on his Simmental breed.

Ps. Welcome to the forum!!!

[ScrumblyFarms]

Thank you! Should I try to find a bred heifer or raise from a calf? Or maybe one of each?

[linn]

A bred heifer or cow would give you a good start. If you can find a cow that has a calf by her side and is bred back, you will pay more, but will get a three-for-one kind of deal.

[HighlandCowboy]

Florida Crackers would be cool if you wanted something rare, and in keeping with your state's heritage. Here's a link to the Florida Cracker Cattle Association: http://crackercattle.org/

[Ellen West]

Are you prepared to pull a breach calf? Not all births are trouble-free.

[trbizwiz]

I second the cow calf pair with calf at side. You know she breeds back well. You can also ask how she birthed and mothers. THose along with udder conformation are some of the most important traits in a heifer. It will cost a lot up front but you will save for the next 10 or so years, or more. A heifer calf at side would be a big bonus. On your size land your herd would be built for years to come. Check out the red polls in my signature for a nice homestead type cow. My 2 heifers calved last month. Both completely unassisted to perfect little bull calves. They are easy keepers, and a very nice beef conformation. THey are moderate milkers as well. They are also noted for heat tolerance. I think that would be a plus in FL.

[genebo]

Be careful about the stocking rate for your area. Check with your local agricultural extension agent or ask neighbors. Florida grasses tend to be sparce, not overly nutritious and subject to drought. Putting too many head on a small space could ruin what grass you have.

You may not be able to support a full sized milk cow and calf on your acreage. That's what Dexters are for.

If your total acreage is 4 and only 3 of that is in pasture, you'll be lucky to support more than a little Dexter cow and calf on Florida's grass. You'll end up buying a lot of hay. You might find yourself buying tons of hay for a full sized cow/calf.

Look at the owner's info on this page and write to her or give her a call. She's pretty close to you and can answer your questions. You may have to cut and paste the link back together.

http://www.dextercattle.org/pedigree...&Page=1&Sort=0

Genebo
Paradise Farm

[ScrumblyFarms]

Yeah, I figured that about having to supplement with hay, we knew we couldn't really do pasture alone. I will be looking into all of this. We are probably still a few months out from out final decision and thanks everyone for your input!

Jackie

[linn]

Another problem with overpopulating a pasture is that soon it is trampled and you have bare dirt with a few patches of weeds or mud.