Are these not the most adorable cow faces ever. I'm pretty sure they are Scottish coos! We saw them many years ago while in Scotland. These however reside in Colorado!
These types of cows are commonly found in the Highlands of Scotland. In the old Scots language, ‘coo’ means ‘cow’ so you may find many people still refer to this breed as either Highland cows or Highland coos. Scots language is a variety of English that’s been spoken in the Highlands for hundreds of years. But it’s not the same as Gaelic. In Gaelic, you’d call a Highland cow a ‘ Bò Ghàidhealach’. Now, try saying that with a mouth full of haggis!
Highland coos are the oldest registered cattle breed in the world. Although, this is simply because their Herd Book predates all others.
They generally live longer and produce more calves than other breeds. It’s quite common for them to continue breeding past 18 years old, after having borne 15 calves.
Highland cows are typically bred for their meat. They don’t increase their feed intake until the temperature drops to -27 degrees Celsius, while other breeds increase their intake at 0 degrees Celsius. What’s more is with their thick coat of hair, they don’t have as much excess fat as other cattle. That’s why the meat tends to be leaner, with 40% less fat and cholesterol than normal beef. Which means the cattle convert poor grazing into lean, tender, marbled beef, and make a real economic contribution to Scotland’s uplands.
The collective name for a group of cows is usually a herd. However, a group of Highland cattle is known as a “fold” – named after the open shelters they’re kept in over winter.
we have a few of these in Mendocino as well
I agree! Bet they have no trouble staying warm in winter!
…we call them Highland cattle round here…
Nice photos...but...you can't describe beef using lean and marbled in the same sentence. Marbled means lots of fat going through the lean parts of the steak/roast/loin...whatever. And it makes a more flavorful cut of meat.
Beautifully done, Beth. Love the light in the portraits.
Nice set. I especially like the B&W.
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