Highland cattle question

[Happyfarmwife]

Hello, my husband and I saw some highland cattle near us the other day and was wondering about what they cost? Does anyone have a round about idea?

Thanks.

[Pat]

Price is going to be relative to where you live. We bought 5 heifers in January for 800 (and 2 were bred), my friend bought a bull calf for 500.

When we were looking around however most heifers and bull calves were average 300 more. (The lady we bought from was getting out of the cattle business and made a package deal for all 6).

We do enjoy them... the 2 that were bred produced 2 bull calves around Easter. They are almost as docile as dairy cattle, but much more protective of the young.

Ours have been hanging out in the pond a bunch this summer. Only 4 at a time though with one up on the bank watching. (yet all 5 will be wet half way when they come to the corral.)

Pat

[Happyfarmwife]

Thank you for the information.

Are you raising yours for beef? I have heard that they are slow growing, but excellent for meat.

[phantompark]

2 Years ago be paid $1,000 for a reg. bull.
last fall we paid $300 each for 4 month old heifer calves
This spring we paid $700 for a cow due in September.
A friend bought a reg. pregnant cow for $2,000!!!!
I see in the local paper a reg. bull for $1450.00
So prices can vary.
We raise them on grass/hay only for beef and always have a waiting list. Very tasty.
We send them to butcher at 2 1/2 year old.

[Patt]

Highlands average between $800 and $1200 depending on breeder, conformation and whether they're registered or not. The usually finish at 3 instead of 2 for full maturity.

[woodspirit]

Time of year has a big impact on the price as well as age/sex of the animals. They are more readily available around here in NY than other breeds so are less than many minor breeds. I've been considering them myself lately.

[Happyfarmwife]

Thank you for all of the replies and information. Gives us something to think about.

Thanks again for the information from all of you.

[Christiaan]

Price depends on what you need the wee beastie for. I bought my pregnant cow for $1100 and a weaned steer for $400. She has given me two bulls and two heifers. The bulls became steers and eventually sold for $5/lb hanging weight. I sold one heifer for $1450, this year's heifer will be staying with us unless I get a really good offer. I've seen unregistered cows and heifers go for as little as $500/ea, steers for $300. I think I've done quite well by buying a registered cow, but others may differ with that.
A friend recently purchased an entire Oregon fold of 23 head for $16,000. Twelve cows, nine heifers, two bulls.