Meet Beef: Alberta Steer Crowned World's Tallest by Guinness
Beef, a steer from Vulcan County, Alberta, has been officially recognized as the world's tallest living steer by the Guinness Book of World Records. His owner, Jasmine Entz, recounts their unique bond from the moment they first met.
A Budding Friendship
Jasmine Entz recalls the instant connection she felt with Beef when he was born in August 2017. "He looked at me and I looked at him and I thought: that one's cute," she said. She subsequently obtained permission from her employer at the dairy farm to adopt him after he was weaned.
Unexpected Growth and a Guinness Record
Initially, Entz had simply desired a steer she could ride. She never imagined Beef would grow into a record-breaking animal. He now stands at 1.95 metres (six foot five), surpassing the previous record holder, an Oregon steer named Romeo, by one centimetre.
A Gentle Giant's Appetite
Beef, now eight years old, weighed 1,100 kilograms (2,400 pounds) when his official measurements were taken two years ago. He continues to grow, requiring approximately 45 kilograms of hay each day, costing around $400 a month. "I was always told that steers never stopped growing. And I was like, 'That's got to be a lie,"' she said. "Except here we are, at eight years old, and he's still growing."
From Riding Steer to Beloved Pet
Despite being a Holstein, a breed typically raised for meat, Beef was always intended as a pet. Entz initially trained him to pull a cart and eventually to ride him. Although she rode him for a season, she hasn't since due to an injury he sustained and the need for custom tack. Friends also suggested his incredible size might be record-worthy.
Living the Good Life
Beef now enjoys a relaxed life on the farm, grazing alongside his "best buddy" Josie, a cow, a horse named Talent, and over 50 miniature goats. "He literally lounges. That's the best way to put it — he doesn't do much of anything," Entz said.
A Pumpkin Enthusiast
Beef's favorite pastime is eating, especially during the fall. Last year, he devoured an entire pickup truckload of pumpkins after Halloween in just three hours. "He sees a pumpkin coming towards him," said Entz, "and he lights right up."
