Texas Longhorn Information

The Texas Longhorns are a gentle breed of cattle in spite of their massive horns. They evolved as a sturdy, lean animal using strong survival skills and without benefit of animal husbandry. Registries are now in place to preserve the desirable qualities specific to this breed.

  1. History

    • According to Stewart H. Fowler, Ph.D., the Texas Longhorn's ancestors were the first cattle to set foot on American soil almost 500 years ago.

    Potential

    • The Texas Longhorn Cattle Breeders Association actively pursues the continuation of the breed. Their magazine publishes results of contests such as the annual "Horn Showcase Show Results" (see Resources).

    Preservation

    • The breeders who formed the Cattlemen's Texas Longhorn Registry were concerned about preserving the purity of these cattle. Visual inspection and DNA testing are mandatory for registration eligibility.

    Fun Fact

    • According to a 2008 report, Top Caliber won first prize for longest horn span at a Longhorn World Championship contest held in October 2008. The bull's horns measured 82 and 13/16 inches long.

    Horns

    • Texas Longhorn cows have the same distinctive horns as the bulls.