Spring Means Calving Season!

Mid February first of March marks the beginning of calving season on the ranch.  Most of our older mama cows will have their calves out on the winter range without any interference from us, they have proven they are good mamas and their instincts take over when their baby calf is born.  Our winter range is in a warmer climate and lower elevation allowing for the perfect atmosphere for new babies to be born.  We will make rides out onto the range to check on them but they know what to do and do a great job taking care of their new babies.

Heifers on the other hand are a whole different story!

A heifer is a female cow that hasn't had her first calf yet.  We keep all of our heifers in Central by the house where we can keep a close eye on them.  The reason for this is that if a cow is going to have a problem calving the highest chance is usually when they are a first calf heifer. 

Most of our animals calve without any problems but occasionally there will be one that needs assistance.  Having the heifers close to where we can check on them each day helps to lower the risk of something going wrong when they have their calf.  

When we see that a heifer is close to calving we will put her under the barn where there is extra bedding and protection from the elements.  Most heifers take to their babies right off and their instincts of protection kick right in.  On occasion, however, a heifer will need help when giving birth or some encouragement to take care of her baby calf after birth, Sometimes a baby calf may be weak and need a little extra help learning to nurse from its mama.

Calving season is always filled with excitement and stress as we make checks multiple times a day on the animals to ensure everything is healthy and accounted for.  

BEWARE of mama cows during calving season!!!

Matt and I often laugh that many people are scared to death of a big bull but will walk right up to a baby calf with its mama near by not realizing that they are in more danger in that situation than with most bulls.  Mama cows are VERY protective of their babies, and that is proof of a good mama, but if you think you are going to walk right up to her baby without some kind of consequence you will be sorely mistaken.  If you have worked with cows chances are you have been run down by a mama cow being protective of her baby.  So if you happen on a baby calf and want to pet that cutie BEWARE because mama may not take too kindly to you.  I really don't blame them, if a stranger tried to touch my baby I would be protective too.