About Cyrus Ridge Farm
Welcome to Cyrus Ridge Farm! We’re a 50-acre family farm in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, dedicated since 2019 to raising Micro and Mini Scottish Highland cattle with quality genetics, gentle temperaments, and smaller calf sizes.
Micro and mini Highlands offer all the charm and hardiness of full-sized cattle—without the strain on land or equipment—making them a perfect fit for today’s small farms and homesteads.
Our journey began with just five Highlands and a dream. Over the years, we carefully selected and bred the smallest and best-quality cattle, growing into one of the largest breeders of Mini Scottish Highlands on the East Coast. Along the way, we’ve remained committed to sharing our passion through education, hands-on experiences, and helping others discover the opportunities miniature cattle provide.
Above all, we dedicate our farm, our animals, and our efforts to the Glory of God.
About the Scottish Highland Breed
Highland cattle are more than just a beautiful breed — they are a living piece of history. Known for their shaggy coats, sweeping horns, and gentle personalities, Highlands have been treasured for centuries as resilient companions to families and farmers. At Cyrus Ridge Farm, we’re proud to continue that tradition, raising Highlands that are as hardy and friendly as their ancestors from the Scottish Highlands.
A Heritage of Resilience
The Scottish Highland breed originated in the rugged Highlands of Scotland as early as the 14th century. Settlers needed cattle that could survive harsh winters, provide rich milk, and offer lean meat — all while thriving on small homesteads. Through centuries of selective breeding, Highland cattle became known for their hardiness, usefulness, and gentle personalities.
Living Alongside Families
In the mountains, farmers often sheltered cows inside their homes during winter for warmth and protection. These close quarters required cattle with docile, friendly temperaments — traits that remain today. At Cyrus Ridge Farm, we continue that tradition by selecting, breeding, and training Highlands to be approachable and kind.
Miniature & Micro Highlands
Selective breeding has also produced smaller Highlands that thrive on less land and feed. Minis keep the same gentle personality and iconic look but in a compact size — perfect for homesteads.
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A micro or mini can live well on ½ acre (with grain supplement)
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They do best with companions (another cow, goat, sheep, or chickens)
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Horses/donkeys are not recommended due to dominance conflicts
Social Life & Herd Dynamics
The Hierarchy
Highlands live within a clear pecking order, usually led by the biggest or strongest cow. Dominant cows eat and drink first, while lower-ranking cows wait. Calves inherit their mother’s rank, which affects how quickly they’re accepted into the fold.
Family Bonds
Beyond dominance, Highlands form deep family groups, often pairing with one or two close companions. These bonds run so deep that cows will grieve the loss of a herd member for days or weeks. At Cyrus Ridge Farm, we honor these natural instincts with a safe maternity pasture for mothers and calves to thrive together.
Distinguishing Traits
The Dossen
The Highland’s signature shaggy fringe (called the dossen) shields their eyes from wind, rain, and snow — and in summer, keeps flies away. Their coats shed lighter in warm months and grow thick and long for the cold.
Majestic Horns
Highland horns are as practical as they are beautiful. Cattle use them to forage, scratch itches, protect calves, and even regulate body temperature. Blood flows through the horns, cooling like a radiator before circulating back through the body — essential for digestion and health.
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Bulls’ horns: thick and forward-curving
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Cows’ horns: upward and wider with age
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Mature cows: horn spans of 36–48 inches
