In case you didn’t know (which is nearly impossible), the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is in full swing. Although the rides, food, and musical acts receive lots of attention, the livestock exhibits remain the heart of the event.

Thousands of animals pass through the show each year—ranging from hefty steers to petite rabbits—representing the breadth of Texas agriculture. Exhibitors dedicate countless hours to feeding, grooming, and training their animals to secure recognition in competitive rings and raise big money for scholarships. If you’ve ever wondered about the rodeo’s vast livestock variety, we’ve rounded up all the animals exhibited at this year’s show, their primary purposes, and a few pointers on where you might find them around NRG Park.

Alpacas and Llamas

These mammals appear in special youth shows or fiber competitions highlighting their wool. While not guaranteed every year, they offer a unique perspective on alternative livestock production. This year, they can be seen for a few days in the dedicated alpaca and llama section at Agventure on the ground floor of the NRG Center, though specific ring times vary. Stop by to learn how ranchers harvest their soft fiber and discover why both species are increasingly popular for smaller-scale farming. Catch the alpaca and llama costume contests at the NRG Center on March 21 and at NRG Arena on March 22.

Birds

The chickens and turkeys in the Junior Market Poultry Auction held at the NRG Arena are central to many farming operations. Broilers (raised for meat) and turkeys are judged, and some are auctioned. Wander through the poultry area and you’ll see rows of clucking contenders in carefully maintained pens. Exhibitors often share insights on raising and tending to these well-manicured birds. With the rise of the bird flu across the country, make sure to take proper precautions, and feel free to strike up a conversation with the owners to learn about the steps they’ve taken to keep their animals safe. You can also watch chicks hatch inside a glass enclosure at Agventure in the NRG Center, one of the more popular attractions, especially for the kiddos.

Cows

The backbone of the rodeo, many cattle parade through NRG Center, from champion Angus bulls with well-defined muscle to docile Holstein heifers. The star attraction is the Junior Market Steer Show in the NRG Center, where Brahman and Hereford entries vie for top honors. Be warned: The cattle enter the food chain after they’re auctioned off.

You’ll also get a peek at the cattle during the ProRodeo competitions inside NRG Stadium every night, including tie-down roping (calves), team roping (steers), breakaway roping (calves), bull riding, and steer wrestling, as well as the kids’ calf scramble that happens before the official tournament. Head to Agventure’s Breed Row Barn to see different cow breeds, including a very impressive white-and-ginger longhorn who makes an appearance every year.

Dogs

Bet you didn’t know dogs performed at the rodeo. You don’t want to miss the Cutest Dog Show on Earth showcase that happens twice a day at the Junction Stage. While only service animals are allowed on the rodeo grounds, you can take the opportunity to awe at these beautiful doggies while your furry friends wait for you at home.

Goats

From Boer goats (common in market competitions) to dairy breeds such as Nubian, Nigerian Dwarf, La Mancha, or Alpine, goats have become popular 4-H and FFA projects. Their smaller size and adaptability make them a good fit for exhibitors new to livestock. Market goats are judged for muscling and structural soundness, while dairy types focus on milk production traits. You can catch the various goat shows at the NRG Center and a goat auction at NRG Arena.

Horses

These animals serve a dual purpose at the rodeo: They compete in discipline-specific breed shows (Quarter Horse, Ranch Horse, Paint Horse, etc.) in the NRG Arena and participate in iconic rodeo events like roping, barrel racing, bareback riding, and saddle bronc, which take place in NRG Stadium.

Horses make other (rather dramatic) appearances throughout each evening. A horse gallops around the stage with a trick rider standing on top of it holding an American flag during "The Star-Spangled Banner." The corporate sponsor carriages in the chuck wagon races are pulled by six horses each. And a herd of horses and their (very cute) foal are given free range to gallop around the stadium for the audience’s enjoyment before the concert starts.

Pigs and Barrows

Pigs in the Junior Market Hog Show bring plenty of excitement—and noise. Exhibitors groom their animals to peak condition, aiming to impress judges who look for several qualities including muscle, fat, and appearance. Pork production is a major part of American agriculture, and these contests can provide a practical look at how producers refine breeding stock. On the more cheerful side, there are fun pig races at The Junction seven times a day, with breeds like Yorkshire, Spotted, Duroc, Hampshire, and Poland China. If you’re lucky, you can witness the miracle of life at Agventure’s Birthing Center, or at least see newborn piglets feeding from their mama after the fact.

Rabbits

Breeds at the NRG Arena shows and contests may range from the Netherland Dwarf and the New Zealand to the Mini Lop and the Californian. Judges evaluate them on fur condition and overall health. Despite their petite frames, rabbits come with big responsibility, which makes them an ideal starter project for younger participants. You definitely don’t want to skip cooing and cuddling these cuties. If you missed the fun rabbit costume contest on March 10, check out the ongoing rabbit exhibits at Agventure.

Sheep

Wool breeds—like Rambouillet—are judged on fleece quality and density, while Suffolk or Hampshire sheep are more common in the market classes for their muscling and carcass potential. The rodeo also sees an array of dual-purpose meat and wool breeds, including Dorset, Shropshire, and Montadale. Then there’s the ever-adorable mutton bustin’ event, where 5- and 6-year-olds attempt to ride a sheep as long as possible before tumbling off into the dirt. Trust us, it’s the cutest thing you’ve ever seen (don’t worry, the fall isn’t too violent, and they wear helmets). Mutton bustin’ happens at NRG Stadium every evening after the Pro Rodeo competitions and before the concert, as well as at the H-E-B tent throughout the day on the Carnival grounds.

Auction dates, livestock showtimes, and maps can be found on the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo website.