Highlands are sexually mature at 18-24 months of age. After a gestation period of 277-290 days birth is given to one baby called a calf. Twins do happen but are not common. They have an average life span of 18-20 years.

Highland cattle are an ancient Scottish breed of beef cattle with long horns and long wavy coats which are colored black, brindle, red, yellow or dun. The breed developed in the Scottish Highlands and Western Isles of Scotland. Breeding stock has been exported to the rest of the world, especially Australia and North America since the early 20th century. The breed was developed from 2 sets of stock one originally black and the other a reddish brown.

Highlands are known as a hardy breed due to the rugged nature of their native Scottish Highlands, with high rainfall and strong winds. They both graze and browse and eat plants many other cattle avoid. The meat tends to be leaner than most beef, as Highlands get most of their insulation from their thick shaggy hair rather than subcutaneous fat. The coat also makes them a good breed for cold northern climates. They are known to be one of the most docile beef breeds.