Highland cattle are a hardy breed originating from Scotland. They are known for their long hair and ability to survive on poor grazing in rugged conditions. Highland cows have a long lifespan, are good mothers, and produce low-fat, low-cholesterol beef. The cattle come in six colors and can be crossed with other breeds like Herefords to produce more beef. Highlanders are a medium-sized breed with double coats that shed water and grow thicker in winter, allowing them to withstand harsh climates.

1. Highlander CattleBy Katie Knarston

2. What are Highland Cattle?Highland Cattle are a bred of cattle ,they are breed for there beef. The meat they produce is low in both cholesterol and fat.These Cattle are well known for there long hair ,they also are shown and can be pets.Highlands are very healthy and hearty and will survive on roughage and poor grazing under rugged conditions , where most of the popular breeds would suffer.The Highland cow has a long life and many cows reach 18 years and rear 15 calves which greatly reduces their replacement costs.Highland cows are very good mothers and can be very protective. Calving difficulties and abandoned calves are rare.

3. Where did Highland Cattle Originate from?Highland Cattle originated in the Highlands and West Coastal Islands of Scotland. Capable of surviving in the harshest of environments.

4. CharacteristicsThrough the long recorded history of Highlanders, breeders have taken great care to retain the original characteristics of these cattle.Highlands are a medium size which means that they have a 10% more carrying capacity than larger breeds. They have a double coat of hair - a downy undercoat and a long outer coat which is well oiled to shed rain and snow. They shed their long hair when exposed to hot dry climate and grow a new one in winter. The Highland has graceful horns and a stunning appearance that will suit any landscape

5. Cross BreedingIn Scotland, Highlands have traditionally been crossed with Shorthorn and more recently the exotic breeds.But they also cross well with Herefords as proven at Manyberries Research Station, Canada, when groups of 100 breeding cows of pure Highland, pure Hereford, and Highland- Hereford cross were tested. * The pure Highland produced 1 tone, more beef than the pure Hereford group. * While the Highland - Hereford cross produced 3 tones, more beef than the Hereford. The Highland cow passes on the valuable Highland characteristics when crossed with nearly any other breed.

6. HighlanderHerefordHighland Hereford cross

7. The Highlanders Colours The colour of the Highlander should be full colour and may be of any of the six official colours: white, yellow, red, brindle, black and dun. It is often difficult for the new breeder to identify the colour of a new calf as most calves are red balls of fluff when they are born. White: Obviously white Yellow: Ranges from dark cream to light red Red: Obviously rich red Brindle: Black stripes on the face, neck and body Black: Clearly black by 12 months, sometimes dusky black at birth Dun: Silver through greys and browns to dark grey, nearly black.

8. GlossaryCholesterol - Is a waxy steroid of fat that is manufactured in the liver or intestines.Hearty -Strong ,tough , live in harsh conditions.Roughage - Dry rough feed. E.g. the burnt off grass on the side of the road.Exposed - No protection, shelter.Traditionally - Has been happening for a long time.Abandoned - Left alone or betrayed.Harshest – Not much food or cold and hot conditions

9. New Zealand Highland Cattle Society incHighland Cattle N.Z(Members of the above) My Dad – Farmer owns and has previously owned Highlanders. SourcesExperts

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