Thistledown Ranch

Thistledown Ranch is a Scottish Highland cattle operation in Elizabeth, Colorado, in Elbert County and the Front Range near Denver. Wendy Pearse and Darce Weil maintain a multi-generation herd with cattle registered through recognized breed associations and following standard health screening protocols. The herd grazes on native prairie grasses and moves seasonally to fresh pasture, with access to shelter during harsher weather.

They focus on gentle handling and early socialization, allowing calves to develop calm temperaments through daily interaction. Water sources are drawn from on-site wells, supporting herd health without reliance on external suppliers. On this family-managed ranch, attention to individual animal welfare guides decisions on breeding, feed, and pasture rotation.

Positive feedback from local producers highlights the ranch’s transparency and consistency in breeding goals. Shared mentorship with nearby farms reflects their commitment to sustaining quality Scottish Highland cattle in the region.