Base (MC1R / Extension)
Sets whether the coat can make black pigment.
- ED Dominant black; produces black-based colors.
- E+ Wild type; allows brindle when paired with Abr.
- e Recessive red; e/e = red-based colors.
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Highland Cattle Coat Color Calculator
Predict calf coat colors for Highland cattle based on classic red, yellow, dun, and black genetics.
Genetics Guide
Highland cattle colors are determined by MC1R (Extension) and PMEL (Dilution) genes.
Dilution (PMEL)
Lightens pigment, especially with two copies.
- Dh One copy = dun/yellow; two copies = silver/white.
- N Non-dilute; full intensity.
Genetic data referenced from UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory.
Highland cattle colors come down to two gene systems: Extension, which sets a red or black base, and a Highland dilution that lightens it in steps. Pick the parents above to estimate a calf, then use the guide below to understand why the numbers come out as they do. Genetic testing through a lab confirms carrier status.
Highland cattle coat colors
The recognized colors, from the classic red most people picture to the rarer dilutions.
- Red: the classic color
- Yellow: red plus one dilution
- White: red plus two dilutions
- Black: dominant black base
- Dun: black plus one dilution
- Silver: black plus two dilutions
- Brindle: a striped pattern
- Red is the most common
- White is uncommon
- Silver is rare
- Base set by Extension gene
- Shade set by dilution gene
How Highland color is inherited
A few plain rules explain most surprises at calving time.
- Black is dominant
- Red is recessive
- Two reds give red
- Black parents can carry red
- Carriers hide recessive genes
- One dilution lightens once
- Two dilutions lighten twice
- Dilution stacks with base
- Yellow carries dilution
- Dun is diluted black
- A test reveals carriers
- Ask a genetics lab
Frequently asked questions
What colors do Highland cattle come in?
The recognized colors are red, yellow, dun, black, white, silver, and brindle. Red is the color most people picture and is the most common, while white and silver are far rarer. The shade depends on the base color set by the Extension gene and how much the dilution gene lightens it.
Can two red Highland cattle produce a black calf?
No. Red is recessive, so a red animal carries two copies of the red allele and can only pass red on. Two red parents therefore produce a red calf. The reverse can surprise people: two black parents can each carry a hidden red allele and throw a red calf.
How does the Highland dilution gene work?
The Highland dilution lightens the base color in steps. One copy on a red base gives yellow and two copies give white, while one copy on a black base gives dun and two copies give silver. This calculator applies those steps, but a genetics lab test is the only way to confirm what a parent carries.
Should I test my Highland cattle for color genes?
If you breed for a particular color, a DNA test through a recognized genetics laboratory removes the guesswork by revealing hidden recessive and dilution alleles that a coat alone cannot show. This calculator is an educational estimate and does not replace laboratory testing or breed society guidance.
