Highland Cows: The Majestic, Gentle Giants of Scotland
September 5, 2024 • Grace Micere
Highland cows are among the most iconic symbols of Scotland. Though they look large and menacing, they’re actually super gentle and friendly creatures. Their long, fuzzy coats and impressive horns make them hard to miss in the rugged Scottish landscape.
Let’s explore these amazing animals, their rich heritage, and fascinating features. You’ll also learn some fun facts about highland cows and how you can save them from extinction by simply buying some socks!
Fun Facts About Highland Cows
Other than the fact that they grow twice slower than normal cows, we’ve compiled several other fun facts about highland cows for you.
- They are the oldest registered cow breed - Highland cows are one of the oldest registered cattle breeds in the world. The breed's lineage can be traced back centuries in Scotland, seeing that the first herd book for Highland cattle was established in 1884.
- They have a funky hairdo - Highland cows are famous for their long, thick, shaggy coats. Their double-layered coat keeps them both warm and dry in the harsh Scottish Highland weather.
- They have majestic horns - Unlike most cows, both male and female highland cows have impressive horns. Male horns are thicker and curve forward while female horns are longer and curve upwards. The horns are not only for show, they also help the cow to dig through the snow to find food.
- They come in many colors - While the reddish-brown one is the most famous, highland cows come in many colors. There are black, yellow, white, brindle, and even silver highland cows in Scotland.
- They are waterproof - The outer coat layer on highland cows consists of oily hair that keeps them dry in the snow and rain. It serves as a natural rain coat to the animal.
- They are hardy grazers - Highland cows are incredibly hardy and can thrive in environments that are too cold and rough for other cattle breeds. They can graze on steep, rocky hillsides and survive on vegetation that other animals might overlook.
- They are friendly giants - Highland cows are known for their gentle and docile temperament; big horns and imposing size notwithstanding. They are often called gentle giants because of their calm nature and friendliness towards humans.
- They have a rich heritage - Fondly called coos by the Scots, highland cows are cultural icons in the country. They often appear in Scottish folklore, art, and even as mascots for multiple events and products.
- They are eco-friendly grazers - Highland cows help maintain natural landscapes through their biodiversity-promoting grazing behavior. In fact, they are often used in conservation grazing to manage wildlands and preserve habitats for other species.
- Not a herd but a fold - Interestingly, a group of highland cows is not called a herd like other cows, but a fold. Who knew?
The Origin and History of Highland Cows
Highland cows have roamed the Scottish Highlands and the Western Isles for centuries. Their lineage traces back to at least the 6th century. Originally, Highland cattle were divided into two types:
- Smaller black Kyloe - It was found on the Scottish islands.
- Larger reddish Highlander - It was found on the mainland.
Over time, these two types were crossbred, resulting in the diverse range of colors we see today.
The breed's adaptability to the harsh conditions of the Scottish Highlands has been key to its survival. The region’s cold, wet, and windy climate required a hardy animal. In addition, the rough terrain calls for a breed that can thrive where other livestock cannot.
As mentioned earlier, highland cows have thick, double-layered coats and can graze on sparse vegetation. This makes them perfectly suited to the Scottish environment.
Cultural Significance of Highland Cows
We mentioned before that highland cows hold a special place in Scottish culture. Beyond their agricultural value, they have become symbols of Scotland’s rugged beauty and resilience.
Highland cows are featured in everything from tourist brochures to fine art. Their distinctive appearance and gentle nature have made them beloved by farmers, tourists, and animal lovers alike.
These are indeed one of the world’s most iconic cattle breeds.
Are Highland Cows Endangered?
The highland cow is at risk of extinction within Scotland. The Domestic Animal Diversity Information System by FAO flagged it in 2021. It is, however, no longer at risk from a global perspective.
In fact, by 2019, the highland cow had graduated from America’s Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List. Since they take longer to mature, their meat is considered more nutritious and tastier than ordinary cow meat. These two factors combined can put the highland cow at risk of eradication due to human interference.
Bare Kind’s Contribution to Highland Cow Conservation
At Bare Kind, we donate 10% of profits from these cow socks to 35+ animal-saving charities, protecting vulnerable and endangered species from extinction.
We’re currently seeking out charities catering to highland cows to partner with. If you know of any, don’t hesitate to let us know.
Buy socks, save animals! You can help protect Scotland’s gentle giants by simply making a bamboo sock purchase. Our highland cow socks are made from bamboo fiber and are as soft as cashmere but last much longer. They are engineered to conform to the contours of your feet, with highly elastic precision knit for a snug fit.
In addition to being made from environmentally friendly material, bamboo animal socks are breathable, moisture-wicking, and comfy. This makes them great to wear as gym socks, work socks, or even dress socks. Ours are thermal socks that remain cool in the summer and warm during winter.
We recommend getting some matching pairs for yourself and your loved ones. They make the perfect gift for animal lovers!
In a Nutshell
Highland cows are a symbol of resilience within a harsh environment. They’ve adapted to the rugged Scottish landscape and thrive in conditions where other cows couldn’t. While they’re thriving globally, highland cows are locally at risk of eradication. You can help stop that from happening by getting a pair of our highland cow bamboo socks.
At Bare Kind, we make novelty socks from bamboo fiber and donate 10% of all our profit to 35+ charity partners. We are B-Corp Certified, use 100% plastic-free packaging, and are 100% carbon neutral. The bamboo itself is 100% sustainably grown and great for the planet.
In the past, our efforts have helped save 887 acres of tropical rainforest, fund 209 boxes of fish for penguins, adopt 12 giraffes, and so much more. You can be a part of the movement by buying the world’s most comfortable socks that save animals. It’s an easy but effective way to make a pawsitive impact from the comfort of your home or office.
Explore our wide selection of colorful bamboo socks. We guarantee you’ll find something for everyone in the family – kids, and adults alike!
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