The cows possess excellent mothering abilities and instincts, as well as very low calf mortality and ease and independence of birthing, making them an excellent choice of breed for maintenance and range purposes. As well, warm climates are conducive to their propagation as registered breeding ranches are found today even in Texas, and Georgia in the Southern United States.ĭespite their long horns and shaggy, “wild” looking appearance, both bulls and cows are notably mild-tempered. Cold climates have little effect on them and are found raised as far North as Alaska and the Yukon, as well as in wintry Scandinavia. The success of the resulting importation of these Highlands to North America, sparked worldwide interest in exportation to Australia, South America, and the far reaches of Europe, where they are kept and thrive as they do in Canada. Highland Cattle are widely considered to be THE hardiest breed of cattle to be found anywhere in the world. Some of the special qualities these truly majestic, Muskox-looking animals possess include the ease with which they are kept. Highland Cattle became well-known for their many positive attributes throughout all of North America’s cattle industry.
The purchase and importation of the first breeding stock animals of this breed followed shortly, and Highland Cattle were soon imported to Canada in the 1880s, first to the harsh winter climates of Manitoba, and then to the Maritimes, where they adapted with ease and thrived, then as they say, “the rest is history”. The Highland Cattle Society of Scotland was formed in 1884, and a book on the subject was published in 1885, resulting in a widespread interest in all of North America in the cattle industry regarding this hardy breed. All colors, including whites, brindles, yellows, and silvers are acceptable in the breed, along with the traditional black and brown. The resultant breed at present-day is a melding of the two originals, and now the breed is one, known simply as the “Highland”. This variety was usually red or brown in color. These were normally smaller, all-black cattle as compared with the second variety, called the Highlander which was larger, due to perhaps a less severe climate inland with more forage. The first, called the Kyloe or West-Highlander, inhabited the Atlantic wind-lashed islands off the West Coast of Northern Scotland. Harsh and severe weather conditions brought about the process of Mother Nature’s natural selection, allowing for only the most adaptable, strong, and genetically superior animals to survive and carry on this sturdy breed.Īs far as Scottish history has been recorded, two classes of Highland Cattle were bred for centuries in the North British Isles. These long-horned, stocky animals originated and were bred for centuries in the rugged, rocky climate of the Scottish Highlands.
At first sight, the shaggy, comical, and toupee-like hair that tumbles down into their eyes and faces is the most notable distinguishing characteristic of the gentle and almost woolly, Highland Breed of Cattle.
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