Meet the Micro Mini Highland Cows
at Tulip Valley Farms

During festival season, Tulip Valley Farm visitors are welcomed by micro mini Highland cows, bringing real farm life into the tulip and daffodil fields. These friendly, pint-sized cows are visiting from our friends at Compact Cattle Co. in Cle Elum, Washington, and add a unique, hands-on farm experience that is unique to Tulip Valley Farms.

Micro Mini Highland Cows at Tulip Valley Farms
We Love to Eat Tulip Leaves

Micro Mini Highland Cows Visits

Meeting the Micro Mini Highland Cows is included with festival admission:

  • Engage with live micro mini Highland cows and feed them tulip stems
  • Designated viewing areas designed for safe, comfortable encounters
  • A true farm-life experience alongside tulips and daffodils
  • A favorite stop for kids, families, and first-time farm visitors

The cows are present during both the Daffodil Festival in March and the Tulip Festival in April, adding an extra layer of discovery to every visit.

Person brushing the mini highland cows at Tulip Valley Farms

Why the Mini Highland Cows Are Part of the Experience

Tulip Valley Farms was created as a true farm experience, more than a destination to view beautiful flowers. Beyond floral displays, Tulip Valley Farms combines a variety of farm experiences, from Tulip Talks to U-Pick Flowers, offering an authentic connection to agriculture.

For guests participating in U-Pick, there’s even a fun farm tradition: discarded tulip leaves can be safely fed to the cows, turning the experience into a simple moment of farm-to-animal interaction that kids especially love.

Two girls feeding tulip leaves to a mini highland cow at Tulip Valley Farms

Who Loves the Mini Highland Cows Most

The Micro Mini Highland Cows are especially popular with:

  • Families visiting with young children
  • First-time visitors looking for a true farm experience
  • Guests spending extra time exploring the fields
  • Anyone who enjoys animals alongside outdoor experiences

Many families say meeting the cows becomes one of the highlights of their visit, adding joy and spontaneity to the day.

Planning Your Visit with the Cows

The cows are cared for by experienced handlers and are housed in designated areas for their comfort and safety. Guests are asked to follow posted guidelines and respect the animals’ space.
Because Tulip Valley Farms is a working farm, animal availability may vary slightly based on weather and care needs.

Mini Highland Cow FAQs

Is it safe to feed tulip leaves to the cows?

Yes! While tulip bulbs are toxic, tulip leaves are safe for the cows to eat. We have confirmed this multiple times with the owners of the cows and their veterinarian. Feeding is supervised and part of their regular care.

What breed are the cows?

They are micro mini Highland cows, a smaller variation of the traditional Highland cattle breed known for their long hair, gentle nature, and calm temperament.

Can I get in the pen with the cows?

For the safety of both guests and the cows, only Tulip Valley Farms staff are allowed inside the pen. Visitors are welcome to interact with the cows from outside the enclosure and enjoy them up close from designated viewing areas.

Do the cows like dogs?

The cows are generally curious about dogs, but not all dogs are comfortable around the cows. Dogs must remain on leash at all times, and we ask owners to watch their dog’s behavior closely and give the cows space if needed.

Where can I learn more about the cows?

You can find additional information about micro mini Highland cows on Compact Cattle Co. website. They are the breeders of the cows visiting Tulip Valley Farms and offer detailed FAQs about care, behavior, and the breed.