Although you wouldn’t think of a cow as warm and fluffy, there is one breed that defies expectations because of its long, textured hair. Highland cattle are cuddly-looking animals with the longest wild caps of any breed, enveloping their hooves and faces in fluffy dog-like fluff.

Highland cattle are native to the highlands and western islands of Scotland. They are ideally adapted to areas with strong winds, rain and typically colder climates due to their fur. Their coats include two layers of fur: an oily layer on the outside that allows rain to flow off and a soft undercoat on the inside that covers the body. This, along with their horns, allows them to forage for food even when the ground is covered in snow. The horns act like a shovel, helping them dig for hidden vegetation.

A Highland cow calf is no exception to the rule that many types of animals are cuter as newborns. It’s hard not to smile when you see their charming antics, with their little snouts, tongues, and size. Below you can see them in all their beautiful beauty.

The Highland cattle calf is an adorable exception to the rule that cows are not charming or cuddly.

Scroll through the gallery to discover more than 20 beautiful photographs of rare species.