This calf is being sledded to the barn where she and her mother will stay close together and bond before they are turned out to a larger corral. We also will make sure that the calf has suckled and has got the colostrum she needs to jump-start her body and her immunities.
I walked to the corrals to let the heifers out this morning, and as I slowly made my way through them so they wouldn't slip on the ice, I heard the distinct sound of a mama cow "talking" to her baby. And there she was -- licking off the wetness, talking to her calf all the while. The calf was speaking the language too. It really is a love affair that begins with a wet splat on the ground, with familiar smells, and with the first guttural sounds of new life.
Calving has officially begun!
Awww! What a cutie! Now begin the long days and sleep deprived nights eh?
ReplyDeleteMy goodness; this little babe is much smaller than I expected. How many others do you expect during calving season?
ReplyDeleteJoyce
Anne,
ReplyDeleteI expect to take my shift in the night to check on the heifers. I think tonight we'll work out the schedule between family members.
Joyce,
The calf is approx. 70-80 pounds. We will be calving 110 first-time heifers, watching them closely round the clock. After they are done, we'll begin on the mature cows, about 260 of them. Oh, and the sheep will begin having lambs around Mar. 1.
Jody
I really enjoy seeing your world on this earth...so different from mine. I respect the work that your lifestyle requires! Blessings...
ReplyDeleteOh, how sweet! You are going to be really busy for the next couple of months.
ReplyDeleteThat mama looks so lovingly at her little babe. I sure hope the weather holds for you and you don't have to deal with snow or sleet during this period of time.
ReplyDeleteWow! Like everyone else has said, so much work, but so rewarding, too.
ReplyDeleteawww...it is sweet. Incredible.
ReplyDeleteI love lil babies. Thanks for sharing this sweet birthday.
so fun,but it has to be such HARD work. Like Laura said, well worth it. :)
When I start to see calves, I know that spring is coming. Yippee!
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely Adorable!!
ReplyDeleteSpring IS on the way!
ReplyDeleteJody