A heifer cow.
A heifer is a young cow, usually one that has not yet given birth to a calf. These cows are an important part of herd dynamics as they represent substitutes for older cows. In the dairy industry, they are desirable as they will eventually produce milk. In the meat industry, the gender of the young cattle is not as important, since in both cases they are usually destined for slaughter, although some heifers can be retained to produce more calves.
Uncastrated adult male cattle are called bulls.
Cattle in general are widespread throughout the world and various complicated terms are used to refer to cows at various stages of life. An ox, for example, is a young bull, and may grow up to become a bull or ox, or it may be castrated to become a bull. Adult females are often referred to as cows, and ranchers may have additional specific terms to define the animals they work with. These terms can be a bit confusing outside of the industry, and some livestock terminology requires a very graphic explanation.
Dairy farmers raise heifers as often as possible to see if they produce enough milk.
The exact use of the term “heifer” varies. In some regions, the term is used to describe a cow that has not yet calved, up to the time of calving. One in the last weeks of pregnancy is sometimes called a nascent heifer. In other regions, a cow may be called by this term even during her first lactation, after which she is considered a fully adult cow. In some areas, the term “first calf” is used to describe a cow that has produced a single calf.
Heifers are an important part of herd dynamics as they represent substitutes for older cows.
The management of young cattle varies, depending on the final destination of the animals. Cows are generally sexed early in the cattle industry, and most calves are castrated to make them easier to handle. Young cows have potential economic value as they can produce calves and milk. A dairy farmer generally raises heifers as quickly as possible to determine whether or not they are producing adequate milk.
After calving, the cow ceases to be a heifer.
In regions of the world with programs that sponsor young farmers, such as 4-H or FFA, many people enjoy raising heifers as a project. A young cow is generally gentler and easier to handle than an ox. When she reaches full size she can be auctioned off at a cattle auction, which can be an interesting learning experience, or the student can create her to extend the scope of the project.