![]() While most groups of cattle are called ‘herds’, groups of Highland Cattle are actually called a ‘fold’. Highland Cattle are very adaptable in that they can live in extreme cold, heavy rainfall, powerful winds and on poor-quality land. There are also ongoing efforts to introduce the breed to New Zealand due to its hardiness. Today they can be found in the aforementioned countries of Scotland, Canada, Norway, North America, South America, Finland and Australia. It is thought that they were brought there around 2,000 B.C. Where Do You Find Highland Cattle?Īs the name suggests, Highland Cows originated from the Highlands of Scotland. These breeds have since been cross-bed so there is no longer any distinction between the two. There were two similar breeds of these cows recognised at first – a smaller Highland Cow and a larger Mainland Cow. As a result, these cows can be found in Scotland, Canada, Norway, North America, South America and Finland, as well as Australia. They are more suited to countries with a harsher winter climate due to their hardy nature. Since then, these fluffy beasts have been exported all of the world. In 1885, the registry for Highland Cattle was established meaning that Highland Cows are officially the oldest breed of cattle in the world. Its incredibly trendy fringe and powerful-looking horns make Highland Cattle unmistakable, and a photo opportunity not to be missed. All of these are icons of the hiking trails in Scotland, but one stands out above the rest: the Highland Cow. For these reasons, Highlands are excellent cattle for locations with harsh conditions and less than ideal forage availability.The mystery of the Loch Ness Monster. They also require less shelter than other cattle because their hair creates a protection against the elements. The Highland cattle are very hardy, thriving on vegetation other cattle would not eat. Both the male and female Highland grow large horns that generally tip forward, which are used to help protect from predators in open range lands. ![]() This longevity allows a single cow to produce many offspring in her lifetime. Highlands tend to live longer than other breeds of European cattle, and will continue to reproduce until they reach around 20 years old. They are traditionally a reddish-orange color, but may also be black, yellow, white, dun, or brindle. Highland cattle can be found in a variety of colors. Highland cattle are also rarely affected by stress, resulting in fewer cases of stress-related diseases than with other European cattle. This also makes them less prone to eye problems including cancer. The Highlands are resistant to diseases carried by flying insects because the long hair on their forehead protects their eyes from the insects. Though they enjoy the cold, Highland cattle can partially shed and regrow their hair to adapt to warm climates. ![]() The inner layer of hair is a soft undercoat which insulates the Highland’s body and keeps them warm in the extreme temperatures of the Scottish Highlands. This oil helps the Highlands to be less affected by the snow and rain by reducing the amount that is able to saturate their coat. Their outer hair may grow to 13 inches long, and it is well-oiled to shed precipitation. They are most easily recognizable by their long, shaggy double coat. Scottish Highland Cattle typically weigh 1,000 - 1,800 pounds when fully-grown.
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