Meet Romeo, the world’s tallest living steer

Oregonians have racked up quite a few world records over the years, claiming accolades for most cartwheels done in an hour, largest tongue circumference, fastest time to alphabetize a can of alphabet soup and many more.

But for this new record holder, it’s his lack of opposable thumbs — or hands in general — that sets him apart.

At 6 feet, 4.5 inches, Romeo stands among (and above) his fellow Oregonian record holders as the world’s tallest living steer , according to a release from Guinness World Records.

The 6-year-old Holstein steer was rescued from the slaughter at 10 days old by owner Misty Moore, who runs Welcome Home Animal Sanctuary in Creswell.

“With open arms and boundless love, we welcomed him into our sanctuary,” Moore said. “From the beginning, he was a survivor, and we could tell that he was longing for a fulfilled life. It became our mission to grant him that life — a life filled with safety, compassion and unwavering attention.”

And he’s a sweetheart, too.

Moore describes Romeo as a “big softie,” who enjoys inserting himself into all sorts of activities, contributing “a touch of bovine excitement to routine tasks,” she told Guinness World Records.

The steer’s supreme stature requires an extraordinary amount of fuel — 100 pounds of hay each day, in addition to 15 pounds of grain and a bathtub’s worth of water.

With the certification of his new record, celebrated with extra hugs and treats, Romeo has about a 3.5 inches on his predecessor: the Massachusetts-based Brown Swiss steer, Tommy .

Romeo stands in good company with a few other vertically gifted animals in the Beaver state. The record holders for longest ears on a living dog and the tallest sheep ever recorded both reside in Oregon.

But with or without his new title, the tallest living steer is clearly loved.

“With every nuzzle and every playful skip, Romeo reminds us of the profound bond that exists between humans and animals — a bond built on trust, nurtured by love, and strengthened by solidarity,” Moore said. “And as we look into Romeo’s eyes, we see not just a steer, but a symbol of resilience, a beacon of hope, and a gentle reminder that every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the power to change the world.”