Willowbank Cattle

Miniature Cattle are any cattle measuring under 42 inches at the hip, at three years of age.

They can be a miniature form of a standard breed – such as Hereford, Galloway or Highland – or they may be a named composite breed. Many of these are recognised by their own breed societies.

WHERE ARE THEY?

Miniature Cattle are a relatively new product of lateral thinking. Countries such as the United States have developed several breeds, while Australia and New Zealand are close behind. Strong interest is being shown by Asian and European countries, especially with regard to semen and embryos.

MINIATURES IN NEW ZEALAND

There is a slowly growing number of Miniature Cattle within New Zealand. Some importations have taken place and there has also been some selective breeding. Willowbank's early focus was on small Dexter-type animals, but following its importation of Miniature cattle from overseas in 2003, it has widened its criteria to also include other breeds – but maintaining an average height of about 36 inches (90 centimetres).

WHY HAVE THEM?

Enviromental impact is significantly reduced.
More animals per hectare can be run.
No shearing, crutching, or flystrike.
Handling facilities are minimised.
As opposed to coarser oxen, the flesh is finer grained, and much better suited in size to modern requirements.
Hardy and well adapted to foraging in lifestyle units or open free range.
Proportionately high yield of milk and butterfat.
High capital return. Quality miniature animals traditionally sell at a disproportionately high price.
High personal interest factor. Miniature cattle are cute, cuddly, and commercial. They combine lifestyle with hassle-free enjoyment – they take the stress out of life.
Early maturing, leading to quick upgrading and faster economic return than that provided by other breeds.

Miniature Cattle

Miniature Cattle

WHAT ARE THEY?

WHERE ARE THEY?

MINIATURES IN NEW ZEALAND

WHY HAVE THEM?

2005