Do Highland Cows Have Different Colors? (Coat Colors Explained)
When you picture a Highland cow, you probably imagine that iconic reddish-brown, shaggy beauty standing in a misty field. But do Highland cows have different colors, or are they always ginger?
The answer might surprise you — Highland cattle come in a stunning variety of coat colors, each with its own charm and history.
(📖 Related: Why Do Highland Cows Have Long Hair?)
The Most Common Highland Cow Color
The most famous and widely recognized color for Highland cows is red — that classic rusty, warm, orangey-brown shade you often see in photos.
This color became so iconic that many people assume it’s the only one, but that’s far from true!
All the Official Highland Cow Colors
The Highland Cattle Society recognizes six official coat colors in the breed:
- Red: The most common and well-known color.
- Black: Rare but striking — gives a sleek, dramatic appearance.
- Brindle: A mix of brown and black stripes or streaks — very unique!
- Yellow: A soft, golden wheat or pale tan color.
- Dun: A smoky, grayish-brown — sometimes looks silver in sunlight.
- White: Quite rare. A pale creamy-white coat, often with a pink nose.
What Causes the Different Colors?
Coat color in Highland cows is determined by genetics. Specific genes passed down from parents control whether a calf will be red, black, brindle, or one of the other shades.
Some breeders intentionally select certain colors to maintain diversity in their herds or for aesthetic reasons.
Do Colors Change as They Grow?
Yes, to some extent! Calves are often born with lighter coats that darken as they mature. For example:
- Yellow calves may deepen to a richer golden or wheat tone.
- Brindle patterns become more obvious with age.
However, their adult color generally stabilizes by the time they’re a year or two old.
Are Certain Colors More Valuable?
Not officially — all colors are accepted and celebrated within the breed. However, in some markets:
- Brindle and white are considered rare and may fetch slightly higher prices for novelty or show purposes.
- Red remains the most requested simply because it’s the classic image of a Highland cow.
Fun Facts About Highland Cow Colors
- Historically, black was the most common Highland cow color in earlier centuries!
- Red became more dominant through selective breeding starting in the 1800s.
- No matter the color, all Highland cows have the same charming personality.
Final Thoughts
So, do Highland cows have different colors? Absolutely — from fiery reds to moody blacks, sunny yellows to striking brindles, these cows show off one of the most beautiful natural color ranges in the cattle world.
Next time you spot a Highland cow, take a closer look — its coat may not be the shade you expect!
Discover more Highland cow facts in our Highland Cow Facts section.
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