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!!! 

A New Corral?

So what is this thing?  Corral?  Puppy containment area?  Calf holder?  Armadillo cage?
Soil/grass test area?  Goat enclosure?  Grandchildren feeding enclosure? 
Check back and its mysteries will be revealed....

Update

We returned Ferdinand to his owner on Saturday.  He was very unhappy to leave and "the girls" seemed upset also.  Our fingers are crossed that Ferdinand has done what he was "hired" to do! 

We have reunited the mamas and babies and there were some heartwarming exchanges between them.  Unfortunately at cube feeding time the babies get pushed around and don't get their fair share. 

We attended the Texas A & M Beef Cattle Short Course this week.  Gosh there seemed to be more information than ever:  DNA screening, castrating, implants, etc., etc.  Also Peg has put the down payment on a cattle working system.  In theory it will making doing all of the above safer. 

As the "Dog Days Of Summer" wind down, we are hoping for rain.  So far this year we have received less than ten inches.  The tank is as low as it's ever been and the grass in the pastures is waning.  Some rain is forecast for this weekend, so we'll see. 

Zeek

Welcome Zeek! 

Zeek joined us after a brief stay with a nearby Lab rescue group.  He is very sweet and loving.  His estimated age is 1-3 years old.  He is potty and crate trained.  Walking on a leash is his one limitation.  We will get there!