Highland calves, affectionately nicknamed “mini moo-moos” in Australia, are becoming increasingly popular. With their fluffy coats and charming little horns, these cute calves are winning plenty of hearts. Because of their long, fluffy coats, soft nature, and beauty, this breed is loved both as a productive breed and as a lovable part of rural life. It is important that you know what they need in the way of care, feeding, and lifestyle.
In this article, we will cover the defining characteristics of baby Highland cows; their appearance, characteristics, biological features and how to look after a baby Highland cow in Australia.
What is a Baby Highland Cow?
A baby Highland cow, often called a calf, is simply a member of the Highland cattle breed with long hair, long horns, and a stocky body. These cows originated in the Scottish Highlands and the Western islands. This breed is gaining popularity for its gentle, curious, and affectionate nature.
Individual characteristics
Fluffy coat: They have a coat of shaggy hair that is red-brown, yellow, pale-silver or dun-brindle, or black in colour, which offers them great insulation, particularly suited to the changing cold weather.
Hornless at birth: While they are born hornless and iit s a notable feature of adult Highland cattle, they would eventually develop small horn buds as they grow.
Small stature: They are quite small and can weigh anywhere from 40 to 60 pounds.
Strength: Although they are small, they are robust and well-suited to cold environments thanks to their thick outer coat.
Gentle, friendly, and social nature: They are known for their gentle, friendly, and loving nature. They usually make a strong connection with those who handle them prematurely. They are also very social, make bonds with other calves and friends.
Biological traits and early developments
A baby highland cow is usually born with a weight of 40-60 pounds, hidden horns, and a dual-layered coat for insulation. They are slow-developing animals and take time to attain full adult size. They develop their own unique-shaped horns quickly, which help them feed and protect themselves.
- Gestation length: The length of gestation is normally about 9 months, like other types of cattle.
- Offspring numbers: Most Highland cattle have one calf per pregnancy, and twins are uncommon.
- Physical maturity: They are moderately mature as they follow their mother’s behaviour soon after their birth, like standing and walking.
- Intuitive period: The mother will suckle the calf, like providing feed, warmth and protection, until the calf progresses slowly to solid feed.
- Lifespan: They have a lifespan of about 15-20 years, sometimes prolonged by excellent attention.
How to care for a baby Highland cow
Taking care of a baby Highland cow requires a great deal of attention. It is important to consider their dietary, environmental and social needs to ensure they are healthy and safe. Their care involves ensuring they are with their mother for milk, consuming ideal nutritious feed, water from a clean source, and shelter from the environment.
1. Feed
Proper early nutrition is important for better growth, improved health, and finally, a more productive adult animal. The nutrition of baby highland cows includes:
- Mother’s milk: The best source of nutrition is the mother’s milk. A newly born calf should be nursed by its mother for milk.
- Superior forage: The diet of the calf should mainly consist of premium hay and pasture grass when it is weaned. High-carb or sugary foods should not be provided as they can cause various health problems.
- Additive: Supply mineral block, as well as protein supplements occasionally, especially when it’s cold or dry conditions.
- Water: Continuously provide them with adequate fresh, clean water.
2. Shelter, health, and safety
Cows should have a safe, dry, warm, and appropriate space for playing and growing.
- Vaccinations and deworming: It is important to regularly vaccinate against common diseases and deworm to prevent health issues and promote a healthy life.
- Hoof care: Keep the calf’s hoof clean and cared for to provide stability and protect the sensitive bones/tissues in the hoof.
- Shelter: Make certain the shelter of the calf prevents sun, wind, and rain.
- Pest control: Protect the calf from both internal/external parasites.
3. Management and socialisation
- Think about communication: Treat the calf in a gentle and kind manner.
- Socialisation: Spend more time with the calf so it can socialise, is friendly, and is manageable as an adult.
- Social living: Provide these cows with friends and companions. Cows are social animals and do better in a social situation.
4. Environment
- Adequate Space: Make sure there is enough space in the pasture for the calf to walk and graze.
- Fencing: A reliable barrier is important to ensure calf safety and limit restriction.
5. Basic principles
Here are some basic principles to observe:
- Observe: Observe what is going on with the calf and look for signs of potential illness and distress.
- Veterinary care: Keep an eye on the highland cow and consult with a competent veterinary practitioner for effective instructions on diet, health and any necessary treatment.
- Regular interaction: Keep company with the calf daily to habituate to your presence and help it to adapt to a new environment or conditions.
Why Australians adore baby Highland cow
Australians’ landowners and lifestyle farmers have increasingly loved baby Highland cows in the past few years. There are practical benefits to having them–besides their good looks:
- Good looks: They are attractive and frequently appear on social media, farm tours, and merchandise.
- Sustainable: They are pasture-raised, provide eco-friendly options and can be raised on smaller farms.
- Docile: They are enjoyed because they are gentle and easy to manage.
- Minimal Upkeep: Compared to other breeds, highland cows take comparatively little upkeep, as there is not a lot of mechanical upkeep, and they are a hardy breed.
Cost of a baby Highland cow in Australia
The cost of a baby Highland cow in Australia ranges from $35,000 to $15,000+. The prices depend on factors like size (miniature or standard), gender, bloodline, quality, and location. On the whole:
- Pet or hobby calves: AUD $2,000 – $5,000
- Pedigreed animals: AUD $5,000 – $10,000+
Vaccinations and initial care are often included in this cost, but the recurrent expenses, such as nutrition, vet fees, and fencing, should also be considered.
Fun facts about baby Highland cow
- Emerged from Scotland but became well established in Australia’s climate.
- Has a potential lifespan of about 20 years with proper care and attention.
- Generally, weaning occurs between 6-8 months of age.
- With a warm, layered coat, they stay safe and comfortable even in the toughest weather.
Conclusion
In short, the baby Highland cow is more than just a rural fashion trend in Australia; it is rooted in tradition, practicality, and, of course, an overwhelming cuteness factor. Farmers, travellers, or someone who just wants a cute pet, those calves will steal their hearts over and over. They need basic care and attention, including their feed and health, to their environment and vet care. For anyone Australian seeking a unique farm animal and a great companion, Highland calves provide charm and class, while making the best choice.
