As always, our primary concern during the weaning process is to reduce stress on the calves. Last week’s heifer calves above have adapted easily to their new routine on the irrigated pasture without mothers to comfort and direct them.
In the process of upgrading our processing area with a hydraulic squeeze and shed roof, we’ve also offered some shade in 100-degree temperatures. This week’s bunch of steers and heifers have found comfort in the new enclosure during the day, free to go to hay and water when they please.
In the interests of journaling, these steers and heifers averaged 722 lbs. when unloaded at the corrals after a 45 minute haul, heavier than last week’s calves: steers averaging 731 lbs. in the auction ring, and the heifers averaging 712 lbs. before turned out on the irrigated pasture.
drycrikjournal 
There is a farm nearby and there are many new little bellies in the field.
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PS the bellies belong to baby belties not yet weaned.
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Not many Belted Galloways around here, but I can imagine a field full of cows and new babies… lots of contrast!
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Great looking heifers! I find it interesting you folks are weaning and in northeast Wyoming we are branding and pairing out for summer grass. Climate dictates the life cycle of livestock and wildlife.
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It’s always interesting to see how others adapt to maximize their grazing operations. In the end, ground and climate dictate when and what we do. Thanks for checking in.
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