North Devon cattle facts for kids
A Devon bull
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| Conservation status | Not assessed |
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| Nicknames | Ruby Red |
| Country of origin | England |
| Distribution | Worldwide |
| Use | Meat |
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The Devon is a very old type of cattle that comes from the county of Devon in southwest England. These cows are famous for their beautiful deep red color. Because of this, people often call them the Devon Ruby or Red Ruby. This name is also used to market their meat. Sometimes, they are called North Devon to avoid mixing them up with another breed called South Devon cattle, which is more yellowish-brown.
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Where Did Devon Cattle Come From?
Devon cattle first lived in the southwest part of England. This includes areas like Devon, Somerset, Cornwall, and Dorset. They are one of several modern breeds that came from the traditional red cattle of southern England. Other similar breeds include the Hereford and Sussex.
Early Breeders and the Herdbook
In the past, some people worked hard to make the Devon breed even better. One important person was Francis Quartly from Molland, North Devon. He started improving the breed in the late 1700s. At that time, many farmers were selling their best cattle. This was because butchers were paying high prices.
But Francis Quartly had a different idea. He refused to sell his best cows. He even bought more good cattle from other farmers. This helped save the best qualities of the old Devon breed. His family continued this work for many years.
Later, a man named John Tanner Davy also helped a lot. In 1850, he created the first herdbook for Devons. A herdbook is like a special record book. It keeps track of all the purebred animals. In 1884, the Devon Cattle Breeders' Society was formed. This group took over the herdbook and helped protect the breed.
Devon Cattle in the United States
Devon cattle were among the first cows to arrive in America. In 1623, a ship called the Charity brought some red cattle to Plymouth Colony. These were likely of the North Devon type. They helped the early settlers in America.
Most Devon cattle originally had horns. However, American farmers developed a special type of Devon that is hornless. This means they are born without horns. This hornless trait started with a bull named Missouri 9097, born in 1915.
Devon cattle used to be known as "dual-purpose" animals. This means they were good for both milk and beef. But over the last 50 years, they have mostly become a beef breed. They now grow faster and produce more meat. The traditional multi-purpose Devons still exist in the United States. They are called the American Milking Devon and are quite rare.
Devon Cattle in Australia
Devon cattle were also very popular in Australia. They were used in special teams called "bullock teams." These teams of strong oxen helped pull heavy logs from forests. They also pulled wagons full of timber to towns and seaports.
Devon cattle were some of the earliest breeds in Australia. Farmers liked them because they were calm and easy to work with. They also grew quickly, were very tough, and had great strength. These qualities made them perfect for the hard work of a bullock team.
What Are Modern Devon Cattle Like?
Devon cattle are known for their beautiful red color. The shade can be a deep, rich red or a lighter chestnut color. A bright ruby red is usually preferred. This is why they are often called the "Red Ruby" breed. Their hair is medium thick. It can be long and curly in winter but short and smooth in summer. The tip of their tail is a creamy white color.
Size and Weight
Adult Devon bulls usually weigh between 770 kg (1,700 lb) and 1,000 kg (2,200 lb). Adult cows typically weigh from 430 kg (950 lb) to 590 kg (1,300 lb). This size makes them practical for farmers. They are big enough to be useful but not so big that they cost too much to care for.
Reproduction and Temperament
Devon cows usually have an easy time giving birth to their calves. It is rare for them to have problems. The breed is also known for being very fertile. This means they can have many healthy calves.
Devon cattle are also known for being very calm and easy to handle. This makes them popular with farmers. They are also very tough and can live in many different climates. They do well in both very hot and very cold places.
Foraging and Meat Quality
Devons are good "walkers" and excellent at finding their own food. They can eat grass and other plants very well. This ability makes them popular in places like southern Brazil, Australia, and New Zealand.
In recent years, some farmers have chosen other breeds. These new breeds grow faster and produce more meat. However, the meat from these faster-growing breeds is often not as tasty. Devon cattle are slower to mature. Their meat, especially from grass-fed animals, is known for its excellent quality and flavor.
