October 2, 2025 in 
If you’re a fan of shaggy-coated ginger cows, the upcoming Highlands Fishing Expansion might just bring your dream of delightfully hairy cattle to life. And not just any cattle—Highland cattle!
Since we still owe you a look at their adorable calves, consider this your first preview. But before we dive in, let’s talk a little about these “gentle giants,” as they’re often affectionately called…
Some Facts About Highland Cattle
Highland cattle are one of the oldest cattle breeds in the world, with records tracing back to the 6th century in Scotland.
They originated in the Scottish Highlands and the Western Islands of Scotland.
The breed has spread worldwide and can now be found in North America, Australia, and other parts of Europe.
Despite often being ginger, Highland cattle can be black, white, yellow, silver, brindle, or dun.
Their shaggy coat consists of two layers: a long, oily outer coat and a soft, woolly undercoat.
The breed’s long fringe, called a “dossan”, helps protect their eyes from insects and harsh weather.
Both males and females have horns, but bulls’ horns typically curve forward, while cows’ curve upwards.
Highland cattle can live up to 20 years, outlasting many other cattle breeds. Some sources say, it can even be more.
Known for their hardy nature, they comfortably survive freezing and wet climates where other breeds would struggle.
A group of Highland cattle is called a “fold”, not a “herd”. This is referencing open shelters made of stone called “folds” to protect them from the weather.
They are extremely docile and friendly, often called “gentle giants” and are popular tourist attractions in Scotland, but they’re reared mainly for beef.
They show affection to each other by licking, mounting, and play-fighting. Mothers are very protective of their calves, and they have social hierarchies.
Tiny Highland Cattle!
Here’s what you want to see. All jumpy and cute. Newborns enter the next stage of their life at six months, when they become juvenile – meaning quite a bit more active and playful.
Appreciate it before they grow into adult cattle after one and a half years. They are still adorable after that, of course.
Ready to Fish & Chill?
With Highlands Fishing, you can also start bigger, more professional fishing operations. A fish breeding facility, offshore aqua farms, feed production and boats for transport let you set up a new line of business in addition to agriculture, animal husbandry, and forestry.
Pre-order now for a 10% discount – or get the Year 1 Season Pass which includes the expansion and three packs! Highlands Fishing releases on November 4th for PC & consoles.
