Highland Cattle

David Shepherd

CBE OBE FRSA FGRA


'Highland Cattle.'
Signed Limited Edition of 850
Date of publication 1982
Image Size 30" x 16"
The Highland (Scottish Gaelic: Bo Ghaidhealach; Scots: Hielan coo) is a Scottish breed of rustic cattle. It originated in the Scottish Highlands and the Outer Hebrides islands of Scotland and has long horns and a long shaggy coat.
It is a hardy breed, bred to withstand the intemperate conditions in the region.
The first herd-book dates from 1885; two types; a smaller island type, usually black, and a larger mainland type, usually dun; were registered as a single breed.
It is reared primarily for beef, and has been exported to several other countries

Highland cows are raised primarily for their meat, which is growing in popularity due to being lower in cholesterol than other forms of beef.
These cattle are a hardy breed, designed to withstand the conditions in the Scottish Highlands.
Most commonly a single calf is born, but twins are not unknown.
Sexual maturity is reached at about eighteen months.
Highland cattle also have a longer expected lifespan than most other breeds of cattle, up to 20 years.