GENERAL INFORMATION

The Red Devon, also known as the 'Red Native', is being rescued from the brink of extinction. There are less than 500 milking Devons remaining in the US. The Red Devon is historically a widespread breed of cattle. It was popular in America during the first half of the century.

DESCRIPTION

The Red Devon is a medium-sized, horned, rich red, multi-purpose breed. The bull can weigh from 1,000- 1,200 pounds and the cow 800- 1000 pounds. It can produce up to 12,000 pounds of milk rich in butterfat, and produce a light-boned steer with 60% usable beef. The steers may also be trained as intelligent, good-natured, hard working oxen. The Red Devon was necessary to the Pioneer Settlers of the American Midwest. It was the breed of the small family farm, but after the Civil War other specialty breeds were developed for beef and milk. Later the tractor replaced the oxen altogether. There was no longer the need for a multipurpose breed like the Red Devon.

HABITS AND HABITATS

The Red Devon has the ability to convert forage and rough grazing into good quality meat and milk. The modern breeds require expensive grain supplements, which is not very energy efficient to grow, harvest, and transport. It is more energy efficient to have a breed that can survive on rough forage and still produce good quality milk and beef, as the Red Devon can. The Devons are active and agile compared to other breeds, and some literature claims they could trot along at 6 miles per hour with an empty cart. This breed has a friendly temperament and makes an excellent family cow.

HISTORY

The Red Devon was the cow of the pioneer. It was the first cow to cross the Appalachian mountains. These cattle were brought into the Plymouth Colony from Devonshire, England in 1623. Although, the Spanish had introduced cattle in the South, the Red Devons were the first imported cattle from Britain Later, other cattle were imported and contributed to the American Devon which developed as the ideal multi purpose breed. There are now two types of Devons: the beef Devon and the older, milking Devon. Recent interest in the breed has helped increase the numbers of Devons.

INFORMATION LINKS

Dairyman.com

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