Birth Alert #2

Vivian's baby arrived three days ago.

We're pretty sure she's a little heifer.  Vivian is a very attentive mom and has had to run around the pasture trying to keep this little girl safe.

#2 is smaller than #1 but that's understandable because Big Mama is going to produce a bigger calf.
Over time and a lot of meals and snacks #2 is going to try to catch up.

After a long day of eating, sleeping, and playing both #1 and #2 are put to bed together for the evening on a nice pile of hay.  Mamas are nearby keeping an eye on their babies.  Like any mom, you know they are taking a few moments for themselves after a full day of  taking care of their little ones.

Birth Alert!

We are happy to announce the birth our first calf! 

She's a Five Star heifer born January 4, 2019. 

Big Mama is her mother.  Looking at Big Mama from the rear, she has clearly lost her wide profile!  Mother and baby are doing well though both are tired. 

"Aren't I cute?  I'm fixin' to have another snack!"

Mama and baby snoozing and relaxing on a bright sunny day!  

Road Traffic

We placed the game cam next to the feeder and got lots of nice shots.

Because the road/drive is just beyond the feeder, we captured a lot of traffic.  Lots of comings and goings. 

The sky was blue and the weather mild, so much captured by the camera.  We love the activity, whatever form it takes!

Deer Feeder Visitors

Have included some pictures of deer feeder visitors.  

 The partying raccoons have returned.  Somehow they always find the goodies; let the good times roll!!

 A good stiff breeze will move the feeder just enough to dislodge a bit of corn.  The squirrels risk life and limb to take advantage of a free meals.  The hawks love their fat squirrels!!!

A feast is had by all!

Co-Pilot

I have a co-pilot as I cruise around the farm doing chores.  Zeek is very invested as "So goes the farm, so goes his life."

I think he may be standing on my foot as we cruise about which is very painful if I'm wearing sandals.  He likes pressing against my knee and the wind in his face! 

More Pests

We've been suffering through an army worm infestation.  After several sprays of  pesticides, they continue to munch their way through our yard and pastures.

Then we have the termites...

They hide in their tubes to avoid chemicals and predators. 

Finally, I have been dealing with 65 pounds of over-the-top enthusiasm.  The good news is this canine is very lovable in addition to being a "wild rascal." 

Zeek is sweet!!!

Armadillos

The armadillos living in my yard are driving me crazy.  Note the dens below...

They spend their nights digging holes all over the yard in search of grubs and other "goodies."  I have to wear my teeth guard when I mow the yard because it is so ridden with holes and ruts.  In hopes of creating some interest eliminating this pest, I have offered a $10 cash bounty on each armadillo killed.  After waiting a year, not one taker has stepped forward.  I have noted three dens, but there are twice to three times as many near trees and along the fence.  Come out and make some easy money!!!