05/23/2026
Though not officially recognized by The Livestock Conservancy as a Heritage Breed, we couldn't leave out our resident Highland Cattle, Hamish and Will-O!
Highland Cattle are native to Scotland, and are one of the oldest registered cattle breeds in the world. The Highland Cattle Herd Book was first published in Scotland in 1885, and lists every pedigree since that time.
The first recorded importation of Highland Cattle to the U.S. was in the late 1890s, but it's possible they came earlier due to the large number of Scotch/Irish immigrants. The American Highland Cattle Association registry was established in 1948.
Originally there were two recognized types of cattle; the slightly smaller and usually black Kyloe, primarily found on the islands off the west coast of northern Scotland, and a larger bovine found in the Highlands and having the more recognizable red color. Today both are regarded as one breed – Highland. In addition to red and black, Highland cattle can also be yellow, dun, white, brindle and silver.
Hamish came to Nashville Zoo in February 2025, and Will-O joined him in May 2025. They're still as floofy and adorable as ever!
