Our Animals
Scottish Highland Cattle
With their sweeping horns, long shaggy coats, and unmistakable appearance, Scottish Highland cattle are a breed that's hard to forget. Originating in the rugged Highlands and islands of Scotland, these remarkable cattle have a history shaped by generations of life in challenging conditions.
Known for their hardiness and distinctive appearance, Highlands have captured the hearts of cattle enthusiasts around the world, including ours here at CY Ranch.
An enduring breed
History & Heritage
Scottish Highland cattle trace their roots to the rugged Highlands and western islands of Scotland, where harsh weather, rough ground, and sparse forage helped shape a breed known for resilience. They are among the oldest registered cattle breeds in the world, with the Highland Cattle Herd Book first published in 1885.
Historically, there were two recognized types: the smaller, usually black Kyloe from the western islands and a larger mainland type often associated with reddish coloring. Over time, these became recognized as a single Highland breed. Today, Highlands can be found far beyond Scotland, including throughout the United States.
Built for the weather
What Makes Them Special
There's much more to Highland cattle than their famous shaggy appearance. Their long, coarse outer hair and soft undercoat provide insulation against cold, wet weather, while their strong foraging abilities helped them adapt to challenging landscapes. Highlands also come in a surprising variety of colors, including red, black, yellow, white, dun, silver, and brindle.
Highlands are generally known for their calm temperament, longevity, and strong maternal instincts. But like any cattle, they're individuals, and good handling, appropriate facilities, and thoughtful care are essential, especially around those impressive horns.
Why they belong here
Why We Chose Highlands
Our family has always been drawn to heritage breeds, especially those with a rich history and characteristics that make them a little different. Highland cattle caught our attention for exactly those reasons. We loved their Scottish roots, their unmistakable appearance, and the hardiness that has helped them thrive for generations.
But their personalities are what really won us over. Our Highlands have a curious, quirky, and wonderfully gentle nature that makes them a joy to have around. Grandma has even been known to gather the whole herd with nothing more than a little bucket of grain, much to the surprise of people accustomed to handling cattle a very different way.
We've found that a little patience and a calm approach go a long way with these animals, and that's exactly the kind of relationship we love having with our livestock.
The herd
Meet Our Highlands
Get to know the Highlands who call CY Ranch home. Explore their individual profiles, photographs, pedigrees, and any current availability.
Part of our story
Previously at CY Ranch
Some of our Highlands have moved on to new homes, but they're still part of our ranch's story. You can revisit their profiles and see the animals who have helped shape our herd over the years.
References