Why have Highland cows become such a big deal?

Highland cows – with their shaggy fringes, oversized horns and teddy‑bear demeanour – seem to have become the internet's favourite farm animals.

Their instantly recognisable fringe‑over-eyes look gives them a mix of mystery and charm that plays perfectly on social platforms.

Butser Hill in Hampshire is among hot spots where visitors go to great lengths to catch a glimpse of the animals in their natural environment.

It even hit the headlines earlier in the week when firefighters rescued a group who had underestimated the tricky terrain.

So when did the creatures become such a big deal and why?

"They're beautiful, calm, and incredibly friendly," says Renata Del Valle who stumbled on the animals while on one of her regular hikes in the area.

The content creator from Bedhampton, near Havant, was quick to share them with her more than 2,400 followers on Tik Tok.

"People respond to authenticity, simple, peaceful moments in nature resonate widely," she said.

And that seems to be the case, as idyllic #HighlandCow posts have reached billions of people online since the trend started in as early as 2014.

Recently, the Scottish natives, affectionately called "hairy coos" and "floofy" by social media users have been filmed proudly strutting around their home in the south of England.

Del Valle said she is always "suprised" by the trends that gain popularity and encouraged fellow creatives who are hoping to catch a snap of the cattle to "prepare" for the hike and do so "responsibly".

"The cows are there all winter, so there's plenty of time to visit safely," she said.

The hardy but docile breed that is "well suited" to nature reserves that attract lots of visitors, says the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, which manages Butser Hill.

It said the cattle has a picky nibbling habit, choosing to munch on "different plants and even different parts of the same plant" which plays a "vital" role in shaping the diverse habitat and appearance of the natural environments.

As with any wild animal, they may appear cuddly but people should always show respect and approach with caution.

Visitors at Butser are advised not to approach cows when walking dogs and to keep pets on leads. The Beds, Cambs & Northants Wildlife Trust adds that, despite their calm temperament, highland cows are "fiercely protective" parents and should not be approached when with their young.

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