Wrapping up the 2026 calf season

The 2026 calf season is winding down at Barkow Ranch, and it has been a good one. The final count is six calves: one heifer, Pixie, and five bull calves.

All six calves are polled, which continues to be an important part of the breeding program. The boys do not have names yet, and the herd records are still waiting on DNA testing to confirm whether each calf is heterozygous polled or homozygous polled.

Those DNA results, along with final registration details, will help complete the official records for each calf. Polled genetics are especially meaningful for many small farms and families because they can make cattle easier to manage while preserving the Hereford traits people value.

Calving season is always a mix of planning, watching, waiting, and being ready when the cows need attention. Each healthy calf is a reminder of the work behind the scenes: pairing bloodlines carefully, keeping good records, managing nutrition, and giving the herd steady day-to-day care.

As the calves grow, we will continue watching structure, temperament, horn status, and overall development. Those details help shape future breeding decisions and help visitors understand how each animal fits into the herd.