A: No. We don’t breed from our Highland Cows and don’t have any baby cows, but instead buy youngstock at 18 months old or rehome from around Scotland. Our fold consists of females and neutered males. Our youngest was born in 2023 and our oldest were born in 2003.
A: Yes! Their eyes are actually on the side of their head, so can see well, with around 340 degrees of vision. The long hair over their face (called the ‘Dossan’) is an important part of their welfare, keeping flies away from their eyes, as well as any debris that might [...]
A: Traditionally, Highland Cows are used for their meat. Their milk is very thick and buttery (good for their calves) and they are not used as dairy cows.
A: No, Highland Cows have their horns for life. Horn growth is at its fastest during the first 5 years of their lives, as the animal reaches full maturity.
A: Only for welfare reasons, such as if their horns are growing in the direction of the cow’s face or body. This is done by a veterinarian who may sedate the cow and then nerve-block its horn to prevent suffering. Highland Cows use their horns to scratch themselves, communicate with each [...]
A: Both male and female Highland Cows have horns. You can usually tell them apart by their horns: male horns generally grow in a forward direction, often rising again at the points. Female horns will grow out level at the head and then scroll backwards and outwards or will grow in [...]
A: The classic deep orange-red colour is most common, but they can come in other colours including yellow or cream, brindle (dark and light colours in the coat), dun, white and black, which is the breed’s original colour.
A: No. There are no large predators in Scotland.
A: Our Highland Cows weigh between 300kg and 850kg (that’s the weight of a small car!).
A: Our oldest Highland Cow lived to 25 years old. Highland Cows can live well in to their 20’s if they are fit and healthy. They are not fully mature until they are 5 years old.
