Origin
The Poll Hereford cows were developed in huge numbers by the Hereford breeders in the United States of America. The Hereford cows were selected because breeders from the Mid-West realized that there are a lot of benefits from breeding a hornless cow. It was in 1907 when there were enough numbers already to register the Poll Hereford. The Poll Hereford cow breed came to Australia back in the 1920. There were three bulls and three cows that were imported to Queensland. After that, there were more shipments that followed. Then, this breed expanded very quickly all over Queensland until it spread to the states in the southern region. During 1922, the first bred association was established. Later on, it was in 1933 when the Australian Poll Hereford Society was created.
Distribution
The Poll Hereford cow is a very adaptable breed which is why it is now established all over Australia. Of all the registered herds and animals in Australia, this breed has become one of the most numerous animals in the country. However, it is still in the eastern state where the highest numbers of Poll Hereford cows are found.
Characteristics
The Poll Hereford cow has a rich red color on the face with white markings. It has brisket neckline, switch, crest, legs and below the knees and hocks. It has a very distinct white face that dominates in the crosses with the other breeds of cattle. Having a dominant poll is one of the main characteristics of these cattle. This breed is best for any market. This is because it is naturally medium-sized and has medium maturity. This breed can produce different kinds of carcasses. It can produce vealers, yearlings, steers, bullocks and many more depending on its genotype, what it eats and how it is managed. Later on, larger framed Hereford was introduced. These cows also have late maturity strains. These characteristics make this breed even more versatile.
Hereford
Polled Hereford cow breed has been through a lot just to become one of todays best beef breed market in the world. The horned Hereford on the other hand was developed back in the 18th century in Herefordshire, England. Most of the first Herefords were bred and raised in New York. Later on, this breed spread to other parts of the world. During 1989, Warren Gammon, a rancher from Iowa, realized in the Trans Mississippi World Fair that hornless cattle such as the poll Hereford can be very beneficial. Poll Hereford is very resistant and they can face any weather condition. They can even survive insufficient grazing. The adaptability of this breed is the main reason why there are poll Hereford cow from all over the cattle world.