The Highland breed of cattle has a long and distinguished ancestry. not only in its homeland of western Scotland. but also in many far-flung parts of the world.
One of Britain's oldest, most distinctive, and best known breeds, with a long. thick, flowing coat of rich hair and majestic sweeping horns, the Highlander has remained largely unchanged over the centuries.
Written records go back to the 18th century and the Highland Cattle Herd Book. first published in 1885, lists pedigrees since that time. New folds, as herds of Highlanders are known, are founded every year both at home and abroad. But it is on the vast areas of poor mountain land with high annual rainfall and bitter winds that Highland Cattle thrive and breed where no other cattle could exist.
Making the most of poor forage. calving outside and seldom. if ever, housed they make a real economic contribution to hill and upland areas. |
The breed is exceptionally hardy with a natural and unique ability to convert
poor grazing efficiently. They are remarkable for their longevity: many
Highland cows continue to breed to ages in excess of eighteen years having
borne fifteen calves. They are great mothers.
The Highland breed has been described as charismatic. beautiful and noble and these characteristics come from pure pedigree breeding. Throughout the centuries the breed has developed and adapted. often in adverse conditions of sparse vegetation and high rainfall. until now we undoubtedly have a very efficient and versatile animal. The majestic appearance of Highland Cattle will complement any landscape. Colours range from white through dun, yellow, red, brindle to black.
The versatility of the Highlander led to a great upsurge in exports to the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Austria. Holland and South America. Highland Cattle can be found foraging 10,000 feet up in the Andes. |
