Scottish Highland Cattle
We specialize in Scottish Highland cattle. The shaggy haired, long horned Highland is closely associated with the beauty, romance, and lore of the Scottish Highlands. But these cattle are also a hardy breed, designed to withstand the rugged terrain and changing weather of the Scottish Highlands.
Their long shaggy coat is actually an unusual double coat of hair: on the outside is a long oily outer hair, which is well-suited to shed rain and snow, under that hair is a downy undercoat that is perfect for warmth and insulation. This distinctive long hair keeps them warm in winter and protected from the brush and undergrowth in the summer, while also protecting their eyes from flies. This “hippy” look is what contributes to their stunning appearance and makes them so recognizable.
The breed is exceptionally hardy with a unique ability to convert poor grazing resources efficiently. They are remarkable for their longevity, many Highland cows continue to breed to ages in excess of eighteen years, long after many other cows would be done. The mothering instinct is highly developed in the Highland cow. Abandoned calves, for even first-calf heifers, are rare. This strong protective nature of the cow minimizes predator and the calf is exceptionally hardy and grows rapidly.
The Highland breed tends to be much smaller than production cattle. But the carcass will reward you with a lean, well-marbled, steak that ensures tenderness and succulence with a very distinctive flavor. Highland beef is healthy and nutritious with lower levels of fat and cholesterol and a higher protein and iron content than most store bought meat.