CRESWELL – Six-year-old Holstein steer Romeo, a rescue animal at Welcome Home Animal Sanctuary, on May 22 was named the world’s tallest living steer by Guinness World Records.
“Romeo came from a veal crate and only had months to live,” said Misty Moore, owner of the sanctuary, who rescued Romeo at 10 days old. “And here he is, 6 years old, and now he’s the tallest living steer. It’s pretty remarkable.”
Tracey Hulk-Newell pets the “gentle giant.”
Romeo was officially documented at 6-4 ½ — taller than Moore initially thought. Former record holder, 13-year-old Brown Swiss steer Tommy from Cheshire, Mass., was measured at 6-1.
Because there are no measuring tools tall enough to measure Romeo, Moore said they had to make one that complied with Guinness World Records’ “very specific instructions.” Romeo was measured on level ground three times Dec. 17, 2023, and the average height was recorded.
Welcome Home Animal Sanctuary has five steers. From left to right: Milo (Romeo’s crate mate), Buster (who is an average-sized cow), and Romeo.
“I don’t think (Romeo) realized what all the fuss (was) about, but I do think he appreciated all the extra attention,”said Moore, who completed the measures on the sanctuary alongside veterinarian Dr. Lauren Furrer and a handful of witnesses.
Welcome Home Animal Sanctuary owner Misty Moore shows Romeo his certificate from Guinness World Records for being the world’s tallest living steer. His official measurements put him at 6-4 ½.
Moore was informed that Romeo won the award on March 11, yet it was not officially announced until May 22.
Romeo gets some pets from Jared Yarbrough, the sanctuary’s on-site caretaker.
Moore sees this recognition as a great opportunity to share Romeo’s story and the importance of farm animal sanctuaries.
“We want to let people know that he’s this great being, not just some tall cow. He’s got a personality, and he’s super playful,” Moore said.
Misty Moore (left) and Romeo.
Romeo is known as “the biggest baby” because he hides from the rain and runs away from necessary treatments like fly spray, routine veterinary care, and medications, but he’s also known for being “a super intelligent, gentle giant.”
“Despite his large stature, he still gets enthusiastic when people join him in the pastures for playtime. He runs, jumps, and leaps with excitement,” Moore said.
Volunteers Blaire West (left) and Tracey Hulk-Newell give Romeo some love.
Moore is hosting an official presentation of the Guinness certificate to Romeo today, May 23 for media and Creswell city employees.
Misty Moore (right) introduces mayor Dave Stram to Romeo.
If you’d like to see the big boy for yourself, from May 26 through Aug. 25, the sanctuary is offering “Welcome Walks” tours — which includes meeting Romeo. Suggested ticket donation amount is $5 and can be picked up at WelcomeHomeSanctuary.com.
