Red Thistle Ranch

Red Thistle Ranch is a Scottish Highland cattle breeder in Livermore, CA, serving the East Bay region near Oakland. Owner Michael Mcelfresh has been raising Highland cattle for over a decade, and the ranch is a member of the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy with regular health screenings for all herds. Animals are raised on pasture with a focus on rotational grazing and early handling to ensure calm temperaments and sturdy frames.

The ranch’s setup includes open barns and shelter paddocks nestled among oak trees, where calves spend their first months close to their mothers. Michael emphasizes holistic nutrition and social interaction, integrating natural forages with trace mineral supplements. Occasional farm tours have highlighted the gentle nature of Scottish Highland cattle and fostered community interest in heritage breeds.

The ranch participates in local county fairs and has seen its cattle earn recognition for their conformation and hardiness. Visitors often note the calm demeanor and distinctive long coats that reflect careful breeding choices.