Breed Spotlight: Highland Cattle

As the number of Highland Cattle breeders in the U.S. continues to grow, the Shade Haven team is pleased to welcome a growing number of Highland producers who are incorporating mobile shade into their grazing programs.

Known for their shaggy appearance, gentle nature, and high-quality beef, Highland cattle are well suited for agritourism and small-acreage homesteaders  – as well as larger grazing operations.

Population: The American Highland Cattle Association reports approximately 2,200 member farms and more than 75,000 registered Highland cattle nationwide.

Origin: The breed origin traces back to 6^th-century Scotland. Highland cattle were first brought to the U.S. in the 1890s to improve U.S. cattle’s ability to handle cold weather.

Meat Profile: Highland beef is lean, tender and rich in protein due to its thick, double coat which reduces the need for heavy layers of external fat.

Fun Fact: Both male and female Highlands have horns that can grow to more than 4 feet from tip to tip. Bull horns typically curve forward and Female horns curve upward. They use their impressive horns to dig through snow and find forage during winter.

Need for Shade

The same double coat that helps Highlands survive harsh winters creates a challenge during the hot summer months.

While all cattle need shade, Highland cattle are particularly susceptible to heat stress, especially before they’ve fully shed their winter coats. Excessive heat reduces grazing time, slows weight gain, and negatively impacts reproductive performance.

The solution – a Shade Haven mobile shade system. With a Shade Haven, graziers move the shade with the cattle, boosting graze time, health and profitability.

• Weight Gain: Heat stressed cattle avoid generating metabolic heat, eating less during the hottest part of the day. Providing shade encourages grazing and helps maintain weight gain and health.
• Reproductive Health: Heat stress reduces conception rates in cows and semen quality in bulls. Providing shade supports reproductive success throughout the breeding season, maximizing the return on valuable breeding genetics and maintaining high birth rates that drive profitability.
• Enhanced Fly Control: Because Highlands have long dossans (the bangs covering their eyes), it can sometimes trap moisture and give face flies a perfect place to feed. Adding an Oiler/scratcher to your Shade Haven reduces fly pressure, improving comfort and supporting overall herd health.