Posted by Maris on 11th Sep 2024
Things You Need to Know About the Highland Cow
Across the world, the Highland cow is one of the most recognizable domestic animals. Their sweeping horns and fluffy coats make them an essential element of Scottish society, as seen in many advertisements, packaging, and pictures. Here are six fascinating details you might not be aware of about this picture-perfect cow.
Ideally Suited for Severe Circumstances
It cannot be denied that Highland cattle are absurdly adorable. They are very picturesque with their long, curved horns, messy coats, and teddy bear-like appearance. Not only are these characteristics attractive, though; they also help the cow endure hard winters in challenging conditions. While their longer guard hairs shed rain and snow, their thick woolly undercoats keep them warm. Their large horns are used to scrape snow away in order to reach food (and for a good scratch!). Long eyelashes and a thick fringe of hair shield their eyes from biting winds, flies, and lashing rain. It's merely a fortunate bonus that these items give them an attractive appearance.
The World's Oldest Registered Breed of Cattle
The first herd book was registered in 1885, the same year that the Highland Cattle Society was established. The breed standard (including those bangs) was discussed and established at this time in Inverness and has stayed that way ever since. Highland cows are a very old breed indeed; written accounts of them date back a century before this, to the 6th century. In addition to having an award-winning herd (or fold, as a group of Highland cattle are known) of her own, established at Balmoral in the year of her coronation, 1953, the Queen is currently the patron of the Highland Cattle Society. Her fold is regarded as one of the best in the world.
Private Tour of Edinburgh's Scottish Highlands
With our exclusive personalized tour, which leaves from the location of your choice and takes you around Edinburgh City Center, discover the finest of Scotland. At ten in the morning, depart to discover famous lochs, ancient castles, and even the cuddly Highland Cows. Savor the comforts of air-conditioned, private transportation all day long. Bottled water, a delectable lunch, and dinner are all included in your trip price to keep you full and refreshed. You may concentrate entirely on savoring your personalized Scottish journey because gratuities are also taken care of.
Excellent Grade of Beef
The Highland cow produces meat of a very high caliber and is not only perfectly suited to survive in the harsh climate of the Highlands and Islands. Highland cattle meat is widely valued for having a juicy, soft texture and 40% less fat and cholesterol than regular beef. To maximize the supply of beef, the Highland cow is cross-bred with other cows due to its petite stature. As a result, the Highland cow is now shipped to every country in the world that needs a breed capable of turning subpar upland grazing into delicious steak, including Scandinavia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and even the Andes mountains, which are 10,000 feet above sea level.
Distinct hues, distinct horns, and distinct names
While the traditional representation of a Highland cow is ginger in color, these animals can also be seen in red, yellow, brindle, dun, silver, white, and black. They are groomed, their coats made shiny and fluffy with oils and conditioner, before they are displayed. Males and females grow their horns differently; the bulls' horns are thicker and curve forward, with very little, if any, upward rise at the tip. The horns of the cows have an upward slope and are more thin. In addition, they are longer than the bulls' horns. In Scots, the Highland cow is called Heilan coo; in Gaelic, it is called Bò Ghàidhealach.
Preservation Grazer
A cow weighs 500 kg (1,100 pounds) and a bull Highland cow weighs about 800 kg (1,800 pounds), which is relatively light for cattle. This, together with its inherent light footedness, make the Highland cow a great option for conservation grazing, which grazes rugged terrain to create habitat for other animals. They also offer good nutrients for the land by trampled bracken regions, and because they eat by snatching up plants and grass with their tongues, they do not clip the vegetation as carefully as nibbling sheep do. Additionally, wildflower seeds are dispersed by attaching themselves to animals and dropping off.
Glasgow-based Highland Tour, Inveraray and Kilchurn Castles, and Standing Stones
We take great pride in being the only tour operator in Scotland providing a special journey that includes stops at Standing Stones, which date back 5,000 years. Our intimate tours are guaranteed by our small, amiable groups, which never exceed 8 passengers. Our excursions, which have received five stars from the Scottish Tourism Board, offer the ideal environment for exploring and learning about Scotland's attractions. Along the way, you'll be entertained and given the chance to learn more about Scotland's rich history from informed guides who are well-versed in the myths, stories, and traditions of the area. Come along for an exciting day of discovery and adventure in the stunning Scottish Highlands! We'll visit Kilchurn Castle, get a close-up look at Highland Cows, take a tour of Inveraray Castle, and take a trip back in time to discover Neolithic and Bronze Age sites such as Cup and Ring Rock Art, Stone Circles, Standing Stones, and the historic Dunadd Fort.
Superior temperament
Famous for their amiable disposition, Highland cows frequently approach individuals to seek affection. They have such a strong sense of social rank and self-awareness that, in spite of their intimidating horns, conflicts never occur. As with any animal, if you are strolling with a dog, exercise extra caution. Additionally, avoid approaching cattle that have young calves because they can be protective of them. Additionally, cattle make amazing mothers because they frequently reproduce after age 18, raising 15 or more calves.