American Milking

Devon Cattle Association


FAQ

How many Milking Devons are there now?
At any given time, the American Milking Devon Cattle Association has approximately 1,200 to 1,500 living animals registered.

Are there any Milking Devons in other countries?

To our knowledge, there are no Milking Devons anywhere else in the world. In England, where they originated, they have been crossbred with other cattle and no longer exist.

Where can I see some Milking Devons?

Check our links page for a museum near you. Also, contact people living near you who are on the breeders list. They will be happy to show you their cattle.

How much does a calf or a cow cost?

Prices can vary with region and market demand. Please refer to the for sale page.

How much do Milking Devons weigh?

Cows weigh approximately 1,000 to 1,200 pounds. Bulls may reach 1,600 to 1,800 pounds. At birth, calves are generally in the range of 75 to 100 pounds.

How big are they?

Milking Devons are smaller than a Holstein, and slightly larger than a Jersey.

What kind of temperament do they have?

Milking Devons are calm, friendly, and very intelligent cattle. Like most animals, however, their temperament can be effected by mistreatment and abuse.

How much do they eat?

The climate in your region will effect how much food a cow needs. In northern New England, the temperature in the winter can go down to -30 degrees. A good rule of thumb in this area is a bale of hay (pasture grasses) and 5 to 10 pounds of sweet feed (20%) per day. Areas of the country with mild winters might feed only hay.

Can I use the milk for making butter and cheese?

The butterfat content of Milking Devon milk is comparable to a Jersey's (approximately 4%). It is excellent for making both butter and cheese.

Do I have to milk them?

For the first few days after calving, a cow will produce a lot of milk, just to be sure the calf has enough milk. After a few days the cow?s body will adjust to the needs of the calf. It may be necessary to milk the excess milk out once or twice a day until this adjustment has taken place. After that the calf will drink all the milk and you won?t need to milk the cow unless you want to.

Can they stay outside all the time?

All animals need shelter from extreme weather. In northern climates, cattle?s ears can freeze if they are left outside in severe winter weather. Cold weather also requires more food to keep warm. Animals put in the barn at night share their warmth and reduce their feed requirements. Extreme heat stresses animals and makes them more prone to sickness.

Another advantage to bringing cattle inside is that you have an opportunity to interact with them. Milking Devons have terrific personalities, so why not enjoy them?

What kind of fencing do they need?

Fencing should be at least as high as the animal?s head. With good pasture, some cattle will need only sheep fencing. For others, nothing will work but electric fencing. Electric fencing should be installed with "stand off" insulators. Milking Devons horns are long, and do not conduct electricity. If the electric fencing is held too close to the posts or other fencing, the cattle will push against it with their horns and ground it on the posts.

Can I register grade calves?

No, the American Milking Devon Cattle Association only accepts animals whose parents are registered with this Association.

Is there semen available to breed my cow if I don’t have a bull?

The American Milking Devon Cattle Association, as well as several private breeders have semen available for sale. See the Semen list page.

How do Milking Devons handle the heat in the Southern and Western part of the U.S.?

Milking Devons are known for their adaptability. They are living comfortably in New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arizona, and Georgia. Feel free to contact a breeder in your area if you have specific questions.

Do they make good oxen?

Milking Devons make excellent oxen, and are highly prized by teamsters in New England. They are intelligent, quick, strong for their size, and easy keepers.

How do I start an ox team?

There are several good books and videos available on training oxen. See our links page for more information.

Are the bulls dangerous?

Any bull is dangerous and should never be trusted. Good fencing is a must if you want to keep a bull.

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