Scottish Highland Cattle

With their tousled fringes, dramatic horns, and slow, steady swagger, Scottish Highland cattle are as much a part of the landscape as lochs and mountains. These handsome beasts aren’t just photogenic—they’re also one of the oldest and hardiest cattle breeds in the world.

Scottish Highland cattle, often simply called “Highland cattle” or “Heilan Coos” in Scots, are an iconic and ancient breed of cattle native to Scotland.

What Makes a Highland Cow So Special?

First off, that long, shaggy coat isn’t just for style (though it is fabulous). It’s a double layer—soft undercoat and coarse outer hair—designed to keep out wind, rain, and snow. That’s why you can often find them perfectly content in the middle of a blizzard, while other breeds are huddled indoors. Their weatherproof insulation means they don’t need to store much body fat, resulting in lean and tender beef.

They come in a variety of colours—red is most common, but black, dun, yellow, and even white Highlanders can be found. All sport impressive sweeping horns and a serene, gentle nature. They’re known for being calm, curious, and surprisingly good with people.

A History as Rugged as the Highlands

Highland cattle have been roaming Scotland’s hills for hundreds of years, possibly as far back as the 6th century. Early drovers prized them for their strength, resilience, and ability to graze on rough, scrubby land that other breeds wouldn’t touch. For centuries, they were Scotland’s bread and butter—well, beef and milk.

There are even two types: the smaller, often black “Kyloe” from the islands, and the larger, redder mainland variety. Both trace their heritage to ancient Celtic stock.

Born for Bad Weather

No central heating? No problem. Highland cattle shrug off cold, wet, windy conditions like it’s just another Tuesday. They’re built for the Scottish climate, where horizontal rain and snow flurries are part of daily life.

Their double coat acts like a waterproof overcoat, and they’ve got a slow metabolism that helps them conserve energy in harsh conditions. You’ll see them happily munching away in the depths of winter while other cows are tucked up in barns.

Highland Coos Around the World

Thanks to their good looks, gentle temperament, and tough constitution, Highland cattle have found homes far beyond Scotland. You’ll spot them in Canada, New Zealand, Scandinavia, Australia, and even the American Midwest.

They’re often used in conservation grazing, managing wild grasslands and heathlands without damaging ecosystems. And, of course, they’re social media stars—those fringes were made for Instagram.

In short, Highland cattle are more than just a pretty face. They’re a symbol of resilience, heritage, and the wild beauty of Scotland. Whether grazing a glen or making friends with tourists, they do it all with unmistakable style.

The Highland Cattle Society was set up back in 1884 by forward-thinking landowners and farmers determined to protect Scotland’s shaggy superstar. Today, the Society champions breeders across the UK and beyond, keeping this iconic native breed thriving for generations to come.

Highland Cattle Folds – Scotland

Blackford Farms Highland Cattle – near Dunblane
Brue Highlanders – Isle of Lewis
The Cladich Fold – Argyll
Killochries Fold – Kilmacolm
Kinlochroag Fold – Western Isles
Romesdal Fold – Isle of Skye

Key Features of Highland Cattle

Coat: They have a double-layered coat consisting of a soft undercoat and a long, outer layer of coarse hair. This protects them from harsh weather conditions, making them well-suited to the cold and wet climate of the Scottish Highlands.
Their coats come in various colours, including red (most common), black, yellow, brindle, and white.
Hardiness: These cattle are exceptionally hardy and can thrive in challenging conditions, grazing on rough pastures where other breeds may struggle.
Horns: Both males and females have horns, which vary in shape and size. The horns serve as a tool for foraging in snowy or rough terrains and as protection against predators.
Size: Highland cattle are smaller than other breeds. Cows typically weigh around 500–600 kg (1,100–1,300 lbs), while bulls can weigh up to 800 kg (1,800 lbs).
Temperament: Despite their rugged appearance, Highland cattle are known for their calm and friendly demeanour, making them a favourite among small-scale farmers and those new to cattle keeping.

Highland Cattle Folds – England

Oak Fold – Chester