Meet Norma: Our Mini Jersey Family Milk Cow at BLeaves Farms
There is something timeless and grounding about having a family milk cow. At BLeaves Farms, we’re thrilled to introduce our newest addition, Norma, a registered Mini Jersey cow. She represents not just another animal in the pasture but a return to a way of living that is centered on self-reliance, nourishment, and connection to the land.
Why a Mini Jersey?
Mini Jerseys are beloved around the world for being the perfect small-scale family milk cow. Unlike their larger dairy counterparts, they take up less space, consume less feed, and are easier to handle, making them ideal for small farms and homesteads. Despite their smaller stature, Mini Jerseys produce an impressive quantity of rich, creamy milk that is perfect for family use.
Norma’s Genetics and What That Means
Norma comes from strong, registered Mini Jersey genetics. This is important for two reasons. First, it ensures her smaller size is true Mini Jersey, not just a downsized crossbreed, which means she has all the desirable traits that make these cows so special. Second, her genetics contribute to the quality of milk production she will offer. Mini Jerseys are known for high butterfat content, which makes their milk perfect for cream, butter, yogurt, and artisan cheese-making.
Her lineage means she will thrive, providing rich milk for our family and farmstead while maintaining the gentle, easygoing temperament that Mini Jerseys are famous for.
Understanding Norma’s Genetic Test Results
When we got the results back from Norma’s genetic test, we were thrilled to see that she tested A2A2, AA, and BB. These may look like random letters, but they’re actually very important markers that tell us a lot about the quality of her milk.
- A2A2 Beta-Casein: This means all of Norma’s milk proteins are the A2 type, which many people find easier to digest compared to the more common A1 milk. Some families who struggle with discomfort or sensitivities from regular store-bought milk find A2 milk to be gentler on the stomach.
- AA Beta-Lactoglobulin: This genetic marker relates to whey proteins and is associated with higher milk yield and excellent quality for fluid milk consumption. It’s great news for families who plan to drink their milk raw or lightly processed.
- BB Kappa-Casein: This is particularly exciting for anyone interested in making cheese, yogurt, or butter. The BB variant is considered the “gold standard” for cheese production because it improves both yield and curd firmness, meaning more cheese from the same amount of milk.
Why This Matters for a Family Cow
Norma’s genetics make her an incredible asset for a small homestead or family farm. With A2A2 milk that is easier to digest, combined with the AA and BB markers, her milk isn’t just delicious, it’s ideal for both drinking fresh and making homemade dairy products like cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and butter. It’s a win for health and for self-sufficiency.
If you’re considering adding a family cow to your homestead, understanding genetics like these is key to choosing the right animal for your needs. One of the best resources we’ve found is the book Keeping a Family Cow. It’s a practical, down-to-earth guide that covers everything from feeding and care to milking and making the most of your cow’s milk.
The Personality of Mini Jersey Cows
One of the biggest joys of a Mini Jersey is their personality. These cows are:
- Gentle and affectionate: They bond easily with families and enjoy human interaction.
- Easy to handle: Their smaller size makes them far less intimidating than full-sized cows.
- Hardworking but calm: They produce plenty of milk without being overly high-maintenance.
Norma has already shown her sweet nature, happily grazing alongside the other animals and coming up for scratches and attention. We’re excited for visitors to meet her.
The Basics of Keeping a Family Milk Cow
Keeping a family cow may sound intimidating, but with the right preparation it can be one of the most rewarding aspects of farm life. Here are a few basics:
- Housing and Space: Mini Jerseys require less acreage than larger breeds, but they still need safe fencing, shelter, and a clean, dry space for milking.
- Feed and Nutrition: Quality pasture, supplemental hay (we mainly offer free feed Bermuda with just a small bit of alfalfa), and dairy-friendly feed keep them healthy and producing nutrient-dense milk.
- Milking Routine: A consistent schedule is key. Mini Jerseys adapt well to once or twice daily milking routines. Having the right equipment, such as a 5-gallon stainless steel milking pail and teat wipes, makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
- Health Care: Routine hoof trims (once or twice a year) are part of responsible ownership. Additionally, a Trace Mineral Salt Lick is essential for dairy cows to balance their diet with vital nutrients like selenium, copper, and zinc. This supports milk quality, fertility, immune health, and overall well-being. It’s a simple, low-cost way to keep your cow thriving.
If you’re thinking about adding a family cow to your homestead, starting with a Mini Jersey like Norma is an excellent choice.
Dairy Cow Fly Spray That Works
One of the biggest challenges of keeping a family cow, especially in warm climates, is keeping flies under control. Regular horse sprays aren’t always safe or effective for cows, so it’s important to use a product formulated specifically for cattle. We recommend a product that uses permethrin, and it works like a charm.
This is designed to be safe for use on cattle, which means you can keep your cow comfortable and still enjoy clean, safe milk for your family. A consistent fly-control routine not only improves your cow’s health and well-being but also makes milking a much calmer experience.
Check out Gordon’s Permethrin 10 Livestock Spray here on Amazon
Why a Family Milk Cow Is Worth It
There is no comparison between fresh, raw, farm milk and store-bought milk. From the flavor to the nutritional density, having your own cow is an investment in your health and independence. Families with their own milk cow often find themselves experimenting with homemade butter, cheese, kefir, and ice cream, all while knowing exactly how their milk was produced.
At BLeaves Farms, our goal with Norma is not only to provide for our family and community but also to inspire others who are curious about returning to the basics. A cow like Norma is about so much more than milk and products, she’s about a way of life.
Join Us on the Journey
Norma is the newest face of BLeaves Farms, and we can’t wait to share her journey with you, from her first milking to all the delicious, farm-fresh creations that come from her milk. Follow along on our social media for updates, behind-the-scenes looks, and inspiration for your own simple living journey:
Adding a family milk cow to your homestead is a dream for many. With Norma, we’re living that dream, and we’d love to help guide you if you’re considering the same path.
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8Smb6vk/
Affiliate Disclaimer
This post contains affiliate links. That means we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.
