Heavy March Snow

One sure thing about March in Southern Iowa is the weather can change quickly. If you remember the photo of the calf in yesterdays blog it was a warm, sunny, spring day. By 2:00 AM we had 4" of snow on the ground and a gentle sleet was falling. I've mentioned the code of the west in previous blogs. To learn more about the code google Gene Autrey's Cowboy Code its outstanding. On days like this livestock producers follow commandment number 4. A cowboy must care for and be gentle with children, the elderly, and animals. For some reason weather systems tend to make cows have babies. There are lots of photos today so follow along and I hope enjoy.

I found this pair at about 7:30 this morning. The mama had dried her calf off and was doing a good job. However a cold wet snow is no place for a new baby and I knew all parties would feel better if they were in the comfort of a dry barn.

Mama cows are very nurturing of the babies. One of the easiest ways to move a pair (cow and calf) is to put the baby in the back of the ranger where the cow can see and smell it. Once she knows where her baby is I believe you could lead her anywhere.

 Here she's found, seen, and smelled her baby. Now were ready to move out.

Following

Taking a break to make sure her calf is safe.

Arrival at the lot in front of the barn after about a half mile walk.

Warm, dry, and enjoying a treat in the barn.

While I brought up the pair Kevin unrolled old bales of hay for the cows to lie down on. This simple husbandry practice is a great comfort to the cows on a snowy day like today.

Cows eating and wallering in their bedding.

 I'm sticking my finger in this calf's mouth to make sure he is not chilled. This is a somewhat crude but effective way to decide if a calf should be brought to the barn. This calf was good to go and proceeded to find some of the fresh hay to bed down in.

 The best thing about most spring snow storms is they don't last long. This was taken about 5:30 this evening. The snow was gone and the calves were still being born.