Highland cows are a versatile breed of cattle that can be used for various purposes. Here are some of the ways Highland cows are used:
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Meat: Highland cows are primarily raised for their meat, which is growing in popularity due to being lower in cholesterol than other forms of beef. Highland beef is significantly lower in fat and cholesterol than other beef. Highland cows are slow maturing, and their meat is fine textured, tender, and succulent.
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Milk: Highland cows are known for the high butterfat content of their milk, and the quality of their milk is excellent. While they do not produce the same quantities of milk as a dairy cow, they do produce enough to feed their calf as well as provide enough milk for an average household.
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Fiber: The fiber (hair) of Highland cows can be spun and is used by many spinners in producing.
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Conservation grazing: Highland cattle are hardy grazers and can graze a range of vegetation unpalatable to other breeds. They are increasingly viewed as the ideal choice for conservation grazing.
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Ornamental livestock: Highland cows are wooly, hardy, and have horns, making them a popular choice for ornamental livestock.
Highland cows have also been used for other purposes in the past, such as providing milk, meat, and hair for Crofter farms. They were also used for thongs, door flaps, shoes, purses, sporrans, belts, boats, bellows, and saddles.
