Wednesday 9 April 2014

Highland Cows (A to Z challenge)

I see a highland cow and I think of Scotland; these woolly beasts with big horns are actually one of the more docile breeds of cattle.  These cows seem to thrive on poor mountain scrub in torrential rain and freezing temperatures with an air of resignation - a hardy breed (like many a Scotsman)!
Highland Cattle
The colour of the long coats can range from a light cream, through the well recognised red, right up to black. I find it curious that so many animals in Scotland are known for red hair (people, squirrels, deer, cows).  Is there something in this gene that suits the climate?
Snow bound
The beef produced from these animals is also lower in fat and cholesterol and higher in protein and iron than other beef, so is a more healthy option (must be all that mountain climbing). But I would rather see them roaming (than on my plate, albeit I'm not a veggie), and I always visualise a cold frosty morning with the herd gathered around a hay drum, snorting streams of steam, lazily chewing the cud.
A darker shade of 'red'.
And I am clearly not the only one who loves these animals.  They have a website and their own facebook page!

12 comments:

  1. They are great looking animals and on FB too.

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  2. Lovely post and love the highland cows - on a par with the Limousin :-) http://detoutcoeurlimousin.blogspot.fr/2014/04/h-is-for-harmony-wise-words-of-einstein.html Bonjour from the A to Z challenge too

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  3. Excellent tribute to the Highland cow!
    Visiting from A to Z ~
    Wendy at Jollett Etc.

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  4. What gorgeous animals. Love that thick fur around their faces. I don't think I've ever seen a picture of highland cattle before.
    Donna On Palawan @ Quintessential San Diego From A to Z

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    1. Designed for snow and very wet / cold weather - also not something you see much of on Palawan :0) they are very docile.

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  5. Oh my gosh. They are amazing! I love cows (and so want pet cows one day). These guys and their scrub just tickle me. Thanks for sharing about them!

    Happy A to Z-ing!
    ~Anna
    herding cats & burning soup.

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  6. Definitely a sign you're in Scotland.

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  7. Great post.The Highland cattle show held every year in pollock park Glasgow is well worth a visit

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    Replies
    1. Yes, I just love the agricultural shows (big and small).

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  8. Highland cows are certainly popular - I see them every morning and just love them.

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