nature provides

This cow had the misfortune of standing on a hill during a lightning storm, she was struck and probably died instantly with no suffering.  I was at a distance when I noticed 5 vultures having a feast.  As I attempted to get close for a photo opportunity they flew off a small distance before returning to their meal when I left.  As a result of animal deaths on the ranch do to weather (the blizzard of April 10) this year we have the fattest coyotes and vultures ever.

ranch friends

We have seen a number of large bull snakes on the ranch this year, several living around the buildings.  This is good as they eat rodents such as mice and have been reported to eat small rattlesnakes (we haven't seen any rattlesnakes this year, so maybe that is true).  The one being held is about 5 feet long but there have been some that have grown to 8 feet. This big guy was quite docile and wanted to be my friend, but he wouldn't kiss me.  Before I grabbed him he tried to pretend that he was a rattlesnake by coiling and hissing and shaking his tail in the grass trying to sound like a rattler.  He could be a captive pet, however I will let him remain in the yard to catch mice.

Taking a break

Tom and Blake were setting a couple of new tanks at the windmill in the M3 meadow today.  Arden made certain that the tanks were level then these 2 were anchoring the tanks with dirt piled high enough that the calves will be able to reach the water.  Blake was not aware that Tom had leaned the shovel against the tank and was taking a break.