From the Northwest part of the Scottish Highlands comes one of the oldest and possibly purest breeds of cattle known today. Scottish Highlands were first brought to the USA in the second half of the 19th century and are the oldest registered breed in this country.

Even though Highlands have long “handlebar” horns they are even tempered, and like many of the ancient breeds they do not stress easily. They have a higher intelligence than many modern breeds of cattle and are easily halter trained.

Highlands are slow growing, yet have a hardy constitution. Their long, thick, shaggy coat and thrifty nature enable them to survive outdoors in the harshest weather. Because of their double coat, they do not put on a thick layer of fat for warmth. They require little shelter. A good stand of trees is sufficient for protection in winter weather, and shade in the heat of summer. Highlands are basically a disease resistant breed. Due to their long forelocks their eyes are shielded from insects so pinkeye is rare.

They are extremely hardy and can thrive where other animals could not survive. They can make do with the poorest of grazing conditions, and need little or no feed supplements or grain to achieve and maintain good body condition. They can eat what other cattle pass up. They are excellent browsers, able to clear the thickest brush. Their meat is a marbled, fine grained beef that is lean, but of very good quality and taste. They cross well with other breeds, such as Jersey and Angus, to produce fine meat.

Black was once the most popular color, but today the most common colors are red or tan. Colors range from white, silver and dun through reddish brown, brindle and black. See black Highlands, Rosaleen, calf Iska, and bull, Marlon. See red Highland cows with black bull, Shadow.

For those with little or poor acreage, these are the perfect cattle to raise with little effort and expense. Recently, Highlands were removed from the rare breed list by The American Livestock Breeds Conservancy and placed on a “watch” list. Today there are less than 10,000 worldwide, with many in the USA and Canada.