Highland cows (Bos taurus) are a hardy breed of cattle known for their long, shaggy coats and distinctive curved horns. Native to the Scottish Highlands, they are well-adapted to cold, rugged environments. They are primarily raised for their high-quality beef, but their docile nature and resilience also make them suitable for conservation grazing and agricultural landscapes.

Data:

  • Habitat:

    • Temperature: Ideal: 5-20°C (41-68°F); Range: -20°C to 30°C (-4°F to 86°F) with shelter during extreme conditions.
    • Pressure: 101.3 kPa (1 atm); can adapt to higher altitudes with gradual acclimatization.
    • Humidity: 40-70% optimal; high tolerance due to thick coat.
    • Oxygen: Standard atmospheric levels (19.5-23.5%); high-altitude capable with gradual adaptation.
    • CO2: Tolerable up to 0.1%; similar limits as other mammals.
    • Light: Adapted to both bright and dim light conditions; UV protection not typically needed due to coat.

  • Nutrition:

    • Water: 30-50 liters/day depending on size and activity.
    • Calories: Around 25,000 kcal/day based on body weight and activity level.
    • Macronutrients:
      • Carbohydrates: Primarily from grass and hay.
      • Proteins: Grass, forage plants, and supplements.
      • Fats: Naturally present in forage.
    • Vitamins: A, D, E; essential for growth and health.
    • Minerals: Calcium (for bones), Phosphorus (metabolism), Magnesium (muscle function).

  • Production:

    • CO2: Approx. 350-450 grams/day; increases with physical exertion.
    • Waste: 30-40 kg of manure/day.
    • Heat: Generates body heat to withstand cold environments; thick coat regulates temperature.
    • Sweat: Limited sweating; primarily relies on coat and respiration for cooling.

  • Reproduction:

    • Method: Sexual; live birth.
    • Gestation: Approximately 9 months.
    • Cycle: Estrous cycle every 18-21 days.
    • Offspring: Typically 1 calf per birth.
    • Care: Calves stay with mother for 6-8 months.

  • Sleep/Rest:

    • Cycle: Sleeps 4-5 hours/day in short intervals; mainly rests while lying down.
    • Active Period: Diurnal; most active during daylight hours.

  • Lifespan: 15-20 years; optimal care can extend lifespan slightly.

  • Growth:

    • Maturity: Reaches full size by 3-4 years.
    • Size: Adult weight ranges from 400-800 kg; height: 1.2-1.5 meters at the shoulder.

  • Uses:

    • For Humans: Beef production, conservation grazing, agricultural tourism.
    • Ecosystem: Grazers that maintain grassland ecosystems and promote biodiversity.

  • Special Traits:

    • Resilience: Highly resistant to cold, wet environments; thick coat and fat reserves aid survival.
    • Temperament: Docile and social; easy to manage in herds.
    • Adaptability: Thrives in varied terrains, from highlands to lowlands.
    • Grazing Efficiency: Selective grazers that prevent overgrowth of invasive plants, promoting ecological balance.
    • Reproductive Health: Typically has fewer birthing complications compared to other breeds.
    • Lifespan: Longer-lived than many other cattle breeds, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.