ABOUT THE HERD

The Fort Worth Herd was created as part of the city's sesquicentennial celebration. A herd of 17 Texas Longhorns, each steer representing one decade from Fort Worth's colorful past, and a diverse team of drovers clad in authentic 19th century clothing were acquired to create the Fort Worth Herd.

On June 12, 1999, in front of 15,000 spectators, the Fort Worth Herd made its first cattle drive to the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.

HERD FAQS

What time is the cattle drive?

The Old West comes to life before your eyes during the world's only twice-daily cattle drive presented by the Fort Worth Herd. Real Texas cowhands drive a herd of Texas longhorns down East Exchange Avenue in the Stockyards National Historic District every day at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

The behind-the-scenes Fort Worth Herd Experience will take place Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. behind the Livestock Exchange Building at 131 East Exchange Avenue. 

How big are the Fort Worth Herd steers?
A mature longhorn steer can weigh 1,400 to 2,500 pounds. Their signature horns can measure six to ten feet, tip-to-tip.

Are longhorns aggressive?
The Texas Longhorn of today is a docile, friendly breed, but it still has strong survival instincts. When they are used to humans, they can be handled easily and even taught to respond to voice commands. Remember they are animals and can behave in unpredictable manners. 

Where do the steers in the Herd come from?
Fort Worth Herd steers are graciously donated by ranchers who support our program and share their love for these animals and the western way of life with others. The photo steers on the sidewalk do not belong to the Herd program. 

Can I drive my vehicle, such as a car or covered wagon, behind the cattle drive?
No, the cattle drive operates twice daily with precision to ensure the safety of our guests. We do not allow unfamiliar elements that can disrupt the routine of our majestic longhorn cattle.

Can drones be operated around livestock and during the cattle drive? 
No drones are permitted during cattle drives or in livestock facilities. Visit the longhorn corral just east of the Livestock Exchange building where you will find an observation deck.

Can I ride a horse in / with the cattle? What if I am an experienced rider? 

For the safety of our visitors and our team, policy and procedure permit only Fort Worth Herd staff to ride in the twice-daily cattle drive and handle our horses and longhorns. Thank you for appreciating the technical aspects of operating this unique cultural attraction.

Does the Fort Worth Herd make special appearances?
To request an appearance by The Herd or our drovers, please submit this request form. A staff member will respond soon.

I love the Fort Worth Herd! How can I support this important western tradition and help make sure this beautiful tradition continues?  
Follow the Fort Worth Herd on Instagram, and Facebook @fortworthherd. You can also text THEHERD to 41444 for donations or visit https://www.fortworth.com/the-herd/ to learn more.

For Event Planners

Are parades or processions allowed to follow the twice-daily cattle drives at a distance?
In very rare circumstances, a procession may follow the cattle drive but only after the longhorns are secure in their holding area.

Are fireworks allowed near the Herd?
No, fireworks and other loud, intermittent noises are harmful to the horses and cattle of the. Fort Worth Herd, as well as other livestock in the Stockyards. Horses in particular take flight when scared and can collide with fences, buildings, and  harmful objects as they flee. Fireworks have been found to cause horses to run and receive injuries such as lacerations, sprains and broken limbs.