As we scanned the pasture, we could see that Red had given birth, but we were looking at the baby to her right and a little behind her. When we arrived, we followed her nose to the baby hidden in the grass. Naturally we thought she had had twins. As time passed and we didn't see the second baby day after day, we went back to the pictures we had in our phones and realized Hershey was "photo bombing" the pictures. Apparently Red was babysitting Hershey for Raquel. To date, Lucky, is doing well and often naps near Hershey.
So the count on calves with this years' birthing are 14. All the mamas have given birth successfully and Valentino has been doing his job as nature warrants.
Calfie has been to the Vet to get her hooves trimmed and repaired. She was suffering with claw-foot. Her back hooves looked like she was wearing elf slippers. She is walking better and appears to be in less pain. Hopefully after her next Vet visit, she'll be allowed to return to the herd.
We had our first cutting of hay and got a total of 81 bales. Not as good as last year, but given the dry conditions, we'll take it.
Summer is settling in and most days are now hot. The snakes are out and the birds are raising their young. Baby hummers have made their way to the hummingbird feeder for the first time. After a little fumbling and tumbling in their landings, each appeared to "fill up." I always feel lucky when I am watching when this yearly event occurs!
