LECTURE NO. 21. 



WEST HIGHLAND CATTLE THEIR ORIGIN AND HIS- 

 TORY, CHARACTERISTICS AND PRINCIPAL POINTS. 



ORIGIN AND HISTORY. 



I. The West Highland cattle, sometimes called 

 Kyloes, are no doubt descended from the aboriginal 

 wild cattle of the country. 



II. Although Argyleshire is their central 

 home, they occupy the whole of the west and middle 

 Highlands, and the western islands, being found in 

 the greatest perfection in the larger Hebrides. 



(1) One of the oldest herds is that of Poltalloch, founded 

 in 1795. 



(2) In many places to the southward they have displaced 

 the deer formerly kept in the parks of noblemen. 



III. Much attention has been given of late to 

 the improvement of the breed, and with a success 

 that is encouraging. 



(1) The cows suckling calves are housed for a short time 

 in winter, and some of the young cattle have sheds provided, 

 but the principal portion winter in the open air. 



(2) A Herd Book has recently been established for the 

 breed, in Great Britain, largely through the influence of Lord 

 Dunmore. 



IV. West Highland cattle in other countries. 



(1) Some have been imported to the United States, more 

 especially the far West, and some to the Dominion of 

 Canada, but 



(2) As yet they have not obtained an extensive foothold 

 outside of Great Britain. 



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