I hope you’re having an awesome Wednesday and that the coffee has warmed you well. I’ve been out in the pastures much of the past week as calving season has launched in a quick start. The calves are loving this crisp, cool weather. Here’s 30 seconds of joy with one. Happy Hump Day!
Calving is my favorite event to occur in ranch life. No doubt about it. I’ve written about the good and bad during calving season. There’s nothing that compares for me. That probably has something to do with how I ended up going to college studying Reproduction Physiology.
I found this video of a cow giving birth to twins in some old files and I figured it was as good a time as any to share.
Across the country there are two distinct seasons in which the majority of calves will be born. We signify them as Fall and Spring – even though cattle will be born any day of the year. For many farmers across the country, the Fall calving season is beginning and we’ll be seeing many new calves hit the ground in the next few months.
It’s important to keep an eye out for weak cows giving birth. After this year’s drought, cows on the thin side might need supplemental energy or have a mineral imbalance that could cause exhaustion while giving birth. Also watch for calves born with a lack of vigor. There is also concern of shortened gestation periods during or after a drought period according to Mizzou Extension.
Most of the cattle here in Tennessee are born in the Spring months, but there are a few Fall calving herds spread around – like this young calf born earlier this week.
What time of year are most of the calves born in your region? What other livestock are giving birth this time of year?
There’s nothing quite like being out in the summer pastures before it gets hot. If only this grass could be a little more green…
This cow is an easy keeper. Need more like her who hold their weight well in this drought.
This is one of the best pastures on the place right now. Resting for more than a month and didn’t stockpile much grass.
Searching for all the grass they can get before it really warms up
How about an actual Wordless Wednesday for once? Well, as close as I can get.
I start each Monday this summer in the pasture, taking photos of cows. Yep, it’s true. It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it. Can ya think of a better way to start the week? I sure can’t.
Now if only I can find a way to make it through HumpDays…
Boy, someone gave her a good black eye!
Thistle – Friend or Foe? Find out more here.
Soybeans!
Growing corn and a freshly harvested wheat field.
Hey fellas!
