We know them as cows in the great United States but in Scotland the beloved animal is affectionately known as a coo . Who knew, right? Well, I did, but it is not something that you would normally know.
If you know me, you know that I love animals. Any animal will make me smile. Little known fact – in my Monaca, Pennsylvania house I had a red kitchen with holstein cow accents. Yep. There you go. Your little known fact about me for the day.
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Of course Aaron being the consummate trip planner and knowing his mom as well as he does knew that coos had to be on our to do list for Scotland. We attempted to visit a coffee shop where. you could pet the coos while you drank your coffee but sadly, the coos were up in a high field by the time we go there late afternoon and had been “over socialized” as their owners so kindly informed us. I was a tad bummed but hey – sometimes I don’t feel like socializing so I totally get it!
Chris and Aaron and I spent a cold wet day on the Isle of Raasay and we saw one of the Highland coos but did not want to trespass on the property. But you can bet I took some pictures from a distance.
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Aaron was determined to allow us the whole coo experience so he found yet another spot where we could actually feed the coos. For a mere 2 pounds per package we could feed who ever came to the fence and luckily, Blondie, accepted the bribe and came over.
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She was sweet and slobbery and I loved her. But then you already knew that, right?
Key Facts About (Highland ) Heilan Coos
Appearance and Adaptation: They have two layers of hair– an oily outer layer and a thick downy undercoat that protects them from heavy rain and cold
Habits: A group of Highland coos is called a “fold’ not a herd. They are highly protective of their young, but generally friendly to visitors. They do not always like to be petted and use their horns to let you know.
Diet: They are great grazers and can thrive on poor vegetation that other cattle would avoid.
Meat: Known for high quality lean beef that is lower in fat and cholesterol than chicken.
Oldest bread: Highland cattle are the oldest registered Breed in the world, with a herd book established in 1885.
Fringe: Their long fringe technically called a dossan (or sometimes a forelock), serves as a natural, functional shield against harsh environmental conditions, protecting their eyes from wind, rain, snow, and sun glare.
So there you have it. A few fun facts and pictures of the adorable Highland Coo. Definitely one of the highlights of our epic trip to Scotland.
