Which cattle breed, developed in England, is recognized for its red body and white face?

Hereford cattle are the English breed recognized for a red body and distinctive white face.

The Hereford developed in Herefordshire, a county in the West Midlands of England. Organized breeding began in the 18th century, when farmers selected cattle for efficient beef production, hardiness, and the ability to thrive on pasture. The breed’s white face became one of its most recognizable features, although markings can vary.

Herefords were exported widely during the 19th century and helped establish beef-cattle populations in countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Both horned and polled Herefords exist; the polled variety was developed through selective breeding for naturally hornless cattle.

Herefords are beef cattle, not dairy cattle. Their red-and-white pattern can be confused with other breeds, but the combination of a red coat, white head, white underside, and white lower legs is strongly associated with Herefords. They are also valued for adaptability and docile temperament.