Red Poll breeding programme welcomes new calves

The Department of Agriculture is marking a major step forward in the development of its Red Poll cattle nucleus herd, following the birth of four calves between September and October.

The milestone represents meaningful progress in government’s ongoing efforts to boost local beef production and strengthen Cayman’s food security.

Dr. O’Shane McHugh, veterinary officer at the DoA, reported that five calves were born during the second breeding cycle – one female and four males. He noted that one of the cows gave birth prematurely and, although the male calf did not survive, “the mother is doing well”.

“The calves and dams [mothers] are currently doing well, thanks to the able assistance, dedication and commitment of the veterinary services team and adjunct DoA staff,” McHugh said.

There are currently 16 adult females in the herd, and the goal is for each to calve, ensuring a steady supply of healthy offspring. As the Department of Agriculture awaits the arrival of additional calves, the long-term plan is for most of the young animals to be made available to local commercial farmers within the next year.

McHugh added that, by that time, the establishment of a local registry to track purebred livestock – particularly Red Polls – is also envisioned.

With backing from the Ministry of Agriculture, the department aims to align the breeding programme with the Livestock Genetic Improvement Programme and the Cayman Islands Food, Nutrition and Security Policy. This initiative supports Cayman’s longstanding tradition of cattle rearing while seeking to reduce reliance on imported beef.

McHugh noted that the DoA recently hosted a livestock seminar that drew strong attendance and interest. He said additional seminars will be held later this year or early 2026, covering topics such as preventative health, husbandry and production efficiency.

He added that “about 70% of issues on a farm are preventable” when protocols are properly maintained.

Looking ahead, he expects future auctions within the next nine to 12 months, as calves are weaned and become available for sale to the farming community.

From Jamaica to Cayman: Building the herd

The Red Poll herd now thriving in Cayman traces its origin to a 2023 import from Jamaica, when 22 animals (three bulls and 19 heifers) were brought to Cayman under the National Livestock Development Programme.

Since then, the DoA has methodically built a nucleus breeding programme, closely monitoring animal performance. Renowned for their resilience, gentle temperament and ability to flourish in tropical climates, the breed has been thoughtfully incorporated into Cayman’s agricultural landscape.

“The Red Poll Nucleus Breeding Herd is an investment in the future of Cayman’s agricultural industry, ensuring that our farmers have access to strong, healthy, and locally adapted breeding stock,” said Director of Agriculture Wilbur Welcome in a statement.

Earlier this year, the department held its first live auction of Red Poll cattle, which saw 11 young animals offered to in-island farmers across Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac. Farmers who participated in that auction have since expressed satisfaction with how their newly acquired animals are faring.

Cayman’s dependence on imported beef remains heavy – in 2023 alone, the islands imported over 7,000 tonnes of beef, valued at more than US$6.8 million.

The Red Poll programme offers a path toward reducing that import burden while improving the quality, resilience and consistency of locally raised beef.