The Kyloe was the cow of the Western
Highlands and Islands of Scotland, small, black and hardy.
At Ardalanish, as in days gone by, the Clach na Gruagaich
Fold of Highland Cattle are predominantly black. The herd's
grazing pattern is more like that of the wild herbivores
than of a domestic breed, replicating in many ways the
activities of the extinct wild aurochs.
Their non selective grazing and foraging
habits are acknowledged by conservation bodies to enhance
the flora on hill ground and to improve the habitat for
wildlife. Cows calve naturally on the hill, seeking out
a favourite sheltered brackeny hollow or heather-filled
corrie.
Native Hebridean Sheep
Hebridean Sheep possibly descended from
Viking Stock; which evolved centuries ago in the Western
Isles of Scotland. Their lustrous black wool makes hard-wearing
articles - traces of similar wool have been found in ancient
Island burial chambers. As with Highland Cattle, their
grazing preferences give them an unrivalled ability in
sustaining delicate ecosystems.