Welcome to raising Miniature Herefords in the Texas Hill Country Montesino Ranch.

On our ranch, the miniature Hereford cattle herd is the lowest maintenance investment we have made. They seem to stay out of trouble and pretty much take care of themselves.

Previous to miniatures, I owned regular size (large) cows. A couple of the young ones decided to teach her how to jump fences and cattle guards. That’s when I started looking for an alternative.

The Miniature Herefords are very calm by nature, they consume less grass and feed and they are so much easier to work and vet. The height requirement for fencing is lower and the cattle guards can be smaller. I believe they are the most handsome of the smaller cattle and the calves are actually cuter than they need to be. As far as agricultural exemption tax status, the rancher receives the same credit per cow unit with the miniature as he does with the conventional size cow; the miniature, after all, is a registered Hereford cow. They are simply smaller and thus, easier on the land.

These cattle are remarkably well suited to the Texas Hill Country. They slip between hill country cedar brush with ease and are simpatico with our native flora. We have sold cattle to others, who like ourselves, were looking for the perfect Hill Country cow. Our specialty is accommodating Hill Country small ranches that are starting fresh with miniatures.

Our herd cows and bulls are selected for certain characteristics true to Montesino Ranch’s breeding program objectives. Shorter status is one characteristic, which, for us, means always less than 44 inches (Even though some competitions in the country have recently recognized taller animals as Miniatures.) We don’t agree with this trend. Our average cow is 41” to 43”, our average herd bull is 39” to 41”. Color and conformation objectives; more red, less white over body, heavily muscled and straight top line, nice shape head and symmetric horns. Yes, horns! The biggest and most professional breeders de-horn the cattle or find a polled breed for good reasons. But with the smaller ranch, why not enjoy the full beauty of the breed?

I hope you enjoy your browse through the sale barn. Please e-mail your Miniature Hereford questions to salebarn@montesinoranch.com. Make sure to note "Mini Hereford" in the subject line so that we know your e-mail isn't junk mail.

Scott Mitchell

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