Appearance:
Dexter cattle are small, compact cows with upward-facing, black tipped horns. These cows are usually black in color, but they can also be red or dun (tan). There are two varieties of Dexter cows. One variety has an average body size and very short legs, while the other variety is small in every dimension.
Size:
Approximately 40 inches tall and 700 - 1,000 pounds
Males are usually taller and weigh more than females.
Diet:
Hay, grasses and grain
Reproduction:
Female cows reach sexual maturity at around 13- 14 months of age, while males (bulls) take about a year. Cows usually come into heat every 21 days, but the peak season is often May - July. Cows are highly fertile and breed relatively easily. Their gestation is around 279 - 287 days, and they usually have one calf at a time. Calves are born robust and ready to suckle; they are up on their feet relatively quickly and weigh around 25-35 pounds.
Behavior:
Dexter cattle generally have a docile temperament. They're known for being gentle, hardy and easy to handle. Cows are social animals, though males often separate until breeding season. Cows live in herds of at least two animals, which consist of cows and their calves. Dominance within the herd is based on age, sex, weight, presence of horns and territoriality.
Cows vocalize using their trademark “moo” sound, which they use to communicate arousal, excitement, or distress to other members of the herd. Calves and their mothers show individuality in their vocalizations, which helps the mother recognize her baby’s calls, and vice versa.
Habitat/range:
Dexter cows are are native to the Southern part of Ireland in the mountainous region.
Median Life Expectancy:
Up to 25 years
