How Much Do Highland Cows Weigh? (Size + Weight Explained)
Fluffy, friendly, and famous for their horns — Highland cows are one of the most beloved cattle breeds in the world. But behind that shaggy coat is a surprisingly sturdy animal. So, how much do Highland cows weigh?
Let’s break down the typical weight of Highland cows, bulls, and calves — plus how they compare in size to other cattle breeds.
(📖 Related: How Long Do Highland Cows Live?)
Average Weight of Highland Cows
Adult Highland cows (females) typically weigh between 500–650 kilograms (approximately 1,100–1,430 pounds).
They’re considered a medium-sized cattle breed — large enough to be robust but smaller than some commercial beef breeds.
Average Weight of Highland Bulls
Adult Highland bulls are significantly larger, weighing between 800–900 kilograms (about 1,760–1,980 pounds).
Despite their impressive size, Highland bulls are famously docile for their weight class — though, of course, they should always be handled with respect.
Weight of Highland Calves
Newborn Highland calves are surprisingly small compared to other breeds, typically weighing around 25–35 kilograms (roughly 55–77 pounds) at birth.
This lower birth weight is one reason Highlands have such an easy calving process compared to other cattle breeds — a major plus for small farmers.
How Big Do Highland Cows Get?
In terms of size, Highland cows stand:
- Approximately 90–120 cm (3–4 feet) tall at the shoulder for cows.
- Up to 130 cm (4.3 feet) tall at the shoulder for bulls.
While not the tallest breed, their long horns and thick coats make them appear much larger!
Why Highland Cows Are a Medium-Sized Breed
Compared to commercial beef breeds like Angus or Charolais, Highland cows are lighter. But that’s not a disadvantage — they were bred for efficiency, not bulk:
- Lower food intake: They thrive on rough grazing and less feed.
- Less stress on pasture: Lighter cows cause less soil compaction.
- Easier calving: Their lower calf birth weight reduces complications.
What Factors Affect Their Weight?
Like all animals, several factors determine an individual Highland cow’s weight:
- Genetics: Lineage and breeding history
- Age: Full weight is typically reached by 3–4 years old
- Nutrition: Quality of forage, hay, and minerals
- Exercise: Free-range cows may have more lean muscle than confined cattle
- Breeding Status: Pregnant or lactating cows will weigh more
Do Highland Cows Get Fat?
Highland cattle have a natural ability to maintain good body condition on minimal feed compared to commercial breeds. However, they rarely become obese — their metabolism suits leaner muscle with a thick insulating coat rather than fat.
This efficient conversion of forage into energy is part of what makes them so well-suited for cold climates.
How Do They Compare to Other Cattle?
| Breed | Average Cow Weight | Average Bull Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Highland | 500–650 kg | 800–900 kg |
| Angus | 550–700 kg | 850–1,000 kg |
| Charolais | 700–900 kg | 1,000–1,200 kg |
| Jersey (Dairy) | 400–500 kg | 600–700 kg |
As you can see, Highland cows are smaller than beef giants like Charolais but larger than some dairy breeds like Jerseys.
Final Thoughts
So, how much do Highland cows weigh? On average, females weigh 500–650 kg, and bulls range from 800–900 kg. While medium-sized compared to some cattle, their thick coats, long horns, and sturdy build make them look far larger than they are!
They’re the perfect blend of manageable size, hardiness, and beauty — ideal for small farms and homesteads.
Want to know more? Explore our full Highland Cow Facts library for more fascinating insights!
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