Coyotes and Cows

The day starts off as any other would. We hold a morning meeting about what needs to be accomplished. Then, I go out and get the mixer tractor warmed up to start mixing feed. Since it’s a cold wet day I put my mud boots on. Then, I jump in a tractor to load the mixer. As I’m going to the pasture to feed our cattle, I notice 3 coyotes on the hillside. I keep a close eye on them as I’m feeding. We have baby calves on the ground, and I’d hate to lose a calf to a coyote. As I’m finishing, I see the coyotes on the move. I watch them prowl across a neighboring pasture to the cattle. Just as they enter the cattle pasture, one of our bravest Pineywood cows sees them and makes her move to run them off. All the other cattle see the commotion and join in scattering the little pack, singling each coyote out and running them out of the pasture.

This is a very proud moment for me. I know my baby calves are protected by a mighty herd.

After feeding I go out for a health check looking for any cattle that may not be feeling well thanks to this cold and wet weather. I also check on all my calves to make sure they are bedded down in warm hay and looking healthy. I reflect that at BDA Farm any cold and wet morning can turn into a beautiful experience of cattle and wildlife interaction!