Breeding Highland Cattle: What to Expect From Calving Season
Breeding Highland Cattle: What to Expect From Calving Season
Ah, calving season—the time of year when your Highland cattle earn their keep and your farm transforms into a maternity ward.
It’s exciting, nerve-wracking, and often full of surprises.
If you’re new to the world of Highland cattle, you’re in for a treat.
These hardy, shaggy beauties are some of the best moms in the business, but even they can’t do it all alone.
Here’s a guide to help you navigate calving season with a smile on your face and (hopefully) fewer sleepless nights.
1. The Countdown Begins
First things first: mark your calendar.
The gestation period for a Highland cow is around 283 days.
That’s roughly nine months, give or take a week.
Once you’ve confirmed a cow is pregnant, you can start the countdown.
Pro tip: don’t get too attached to the due date.
Highlands, like humans, have their own schedule and love to keep you guessing.
2. Nesting Behavior (No, They Don’t Knit Booties)
As calving time approaches, your cow will start showing signs that the big day (or night) is near.
You’ll notice her udder filling up with milk—a process called “bagging up.”
Her belly will also drop, and she’ll start looking for a quiet, comfortable spot to give birth.
Highland cattle are incredibly maternal, so don’t be surprised if she picks a secluded corner of the pasture.
Cue the dramatic lighting and soothing music.
3. The Big Moment
When it’s time for the calf to arrive, things can move fast.
Or not.
Highlands are known for easy calving, but that doesn’t mean every birth will be textbook.
Keep an eye out for these stages:
Stage 1: The cow becomes restless, lies down and gets up repeatedly, and may even moo more than usual.
Stage 2: The water bag appears, followed by hooves and (eventually) a calf.
Stage 3: The placenta is expelled.
Sounds simple, right?
Most of the time, it is.
But if you notice anything unusual (like a calf stuck in the wrong position), don’t hesitate to call your vet.
Better safe than sorry!
4. Meet the New Family Member
Once the calf is born, it’s time for its grand debut.
Within minutes, the calf should start breathing and moving.
Mama cow will take care of cleaning her baby by licking it all over.
This not only removes the birth goo but also stimulates circulation and helps the calf bond with its mom.
Fun fact: Highland calves are born with a full coat of hair, making them look like tiny teddy bears.
Prepare for your heart to melt.
5. The Importance of Colostrum
Colostrum is the golden milk of the cattle world, and it’s absolutely vital for a newborn calf.
It’s packed with antibodies, nutrients, and energy to give the calf a strong start in life.
The calf should nurse within the first two hours after birth.
If the calf isn’t nursing, you may need to step in and bottle-feed colostrum.
Keep a supply on hand just in case.
Nothing says "farmer of the year" like warming a bottle for a newborn calf at 3 a.m.!
6. Post-Calving Care for Mama
Don’t forget about the star of the show: Mama cow.
After she delivers her calf, she’ll need time to recover.
Provide plenty of fresh water and quality hay to keep her energy up.
You’ll also want to check that she’s expelled the placenta within a few hours of giving birth.
Retained placentas can lead to infections, so keep an eye on her.
And don’t forget to give her a pat on the back (or scratch behind the ears) for a job well done.
7. Watch for Warning Signs
While Highland cattle are generally low-maintenance, calving season is a time to stay vigilant.
Watch for signs of trouble, such as:
Difficulty delivering the calf
Calf not nursing
Mama showing signs of illness or distress
The earlier you catch a problem, the easier it will be to address.
Your vet is your best friend during calving season, so don’t hesitate to call if something feels off.
8. Socializing the Calf
Highland calves are cute, curious, and quick to bond.
Spend time with them early to get them used to human interaction.
This will make handling them easier as they grow.
Remember, those tiny horns will eventually turn into massive headgear, so training and socialization are key.
Plus, who doesn’t love cuddling a fluffy baby cow?
9. Document the Journey
Calving season is a rollercoaster, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.
Take photos and videos to document the process.
Not only will this create lasting memories, but it’s also a great way to share your farm’s story on social media or your blog.
Highland calves are Instagram gold.
Seriously, watch those likes roll in.
10. Celebrate Your Success
Once calving season is over, take a moment to celebrate.
You’ve just brought new life into the world and expanded your herd.
That’s no small feat!
Give yourself a pat on the back and maybe even treat yourself to a celebratory snack (or nap).
After all, you’ve earned it.
Final Thoughts
Breeding Highland cattle and navigating calving season is a unique experience filled with highs, lows, and a whole lot of learning.
But with proper preparation and a little bit of patience, you’ll come out the other side with healthy calves, happy cows, and a sense of accomplishment that’s hard to beat.
So roll up your sleeves, stock up on colostrum, and get ready for one of the most rewarding seasons on the farm.
Because let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like the sight of a wobbly, fluffy Highland calf taking its first steps.
It’s pure magic.
And you’re the magician behind it all.
Now go out there and make it happen!
