Highland
(most common name)
(transboundary/brand name)

(local/other name):
• Kiloe
• Kyloe
• Schottisches Hochlandrind (Austria)
• Scotch Highland
• Scottish Highland
• West Highland

The Highland, known from as far back as the 13th century, is a small, shaggy breed with long horns and believed to be descended from Celtic runts.

The Highland evolved in the western coast islands and mountains of Scotland in a harsh climate. Under such unfavorable conditions, the breed developed a great level of hardiness and is well adapted to extensive low-input systems of management.

There were two types:
• a smaller type - found in the western islands, these cattle were called Kyloe
• a larger type - found on the mainland in the mountains, usually with a red or brown coat

• 1884 - Highland breed society formed; both types recognized as ‘Highland’
• 1885 - Highland herdbook established

Countries the Highland has been exported to include:
• Argentina (1920s)
• Australia
• Canada (late 1800s; breed society 1964)
• Falkland Islands
• mainland Europe (particularly Germany, for use in conservation grazing projects)
• Sweden (breed society 1978)
• USA (late 1800s; breed society 1948)
• former USSR

This page was last updated on: 2023-10-20

You can also go to:

My Daily Cow® Scotland and read about other Scottish cattle breeds.

The Cow Wall® A-Z Cattle Breed Picture Reference to see other breeds of cattle in the world.