DWD Longhorns logo with head of red twisty-horned Texas Longhorn cow

Phenotypic Traits of DWD Conservaton Texas Longhorns

Phenotype refers to an individual’s observable traits, such as body conformation, head and horn shape, as determined by both their genomic makeup (genotype) and environmental factors.











Fresh Udder
Fresh Udder
Udder Mid-lactation
Udder Mid-lactation
Udder Late Lactation
Udder Late Lactation
Scrotum
Scrotum
Scrotum Warm Weather
Scrotum Warm Weather
Ear Hair
Ear Hair
Ear Placement Tight Under Horns
Eyes Do Not Protrude
Ear Placement Tight Under Horns
Eyes Do Not Protrude
Face Length & Crown-to-Muzzle Width Ratio
Face Length & Crown-to-Muzzle Width Ratio
Front Foot
Front Foot
Back Feet
Back Feet
Typical Cow Conformation
Typical Cow Conformation
Typical Bull Conformation
Typical Bull Conformation
J-hook Tail-set
J-hook Tail-set
Clean Undersides Without Pendulous Skin
Clean Undersides Without Pendulous Skin
Hooks Slightly Higher Than Pins
Straight Thigh From Pins To Leg
Hooks Slightly Higher Than Pins
Straight Thigh From Pins To Leg

Leg conformation in conservation Texas Longhorn cattle is more like dairy breeds than other beef breeds.  Although Texas Longhorn is a beef breed, they do not possess overly developed rounds or wide shoulders. Their evolution created an animal adapted to semiarid climates where many forage species are adorned with thorns.  Texas Longhorns do not have loose navels, sheaths or briskets that might be punctured or torn on their long treks between grazing and watering sites.  Their light-to-medium bone structure enables easy travel and easy calving. Narrow foreheads and shoulders are presented for uncomplicated, unassisted deliveries in remote brush country.

The coccygeal vertibrae protrude higher than the spine.  This facilitates a high tail that protects the vulva.  A slight tilt of the pelvis prevents fecal contamination of the reproductive tract.  The flexible spine permits long, effortless strides.  The light bodies of Texas Longhorns are athletic contributing to greater endurance.  Large nostrils allow for ample oxygen intake and long hair in the ears and their long tail switch help to keep off insects pests.

What is a Conservation Texas Longhorn?