cleaning up

The ranch has an accumulation of 75 to 100 year old buildings that are in various stages of dilapedation and have been unuseable for many years, consequently we have dug a large pit to burn them and other old corral boards with their many nails and bolts.  It was 5 degrees today so the heat felt good.  This is the Wohlers Ranch private land fill.

Eagle attempts to fly

An attempt was made to release the eagle after 8 days, he has been eating great and jumps accross the stalls in the horse barn.  But he wasn't able to get off of the ground.  You can see in the photo that his right wing has some paralysis, he can flap it but doesn't have the strength for a lift off.  He will be given some more time and we will see what happens.

pregnancy checking cows

Pat, Blake and Dr. Arden found out today which cows were going to have calves born this spring and thus earn the right to remain on the Wohlers ranch eating grass for another year.  The pregnancy test is accomplished by placing the cow in a squeeze chute were they are gently held very still while the veterinarian reaches inside the cow to see if a calf is there.  The cows were also vaccinated for protection against diseases that could cause their calves to have diarrhea (scours) after they are born.

Brucellosis vaccinating

The replacement heifers were vaccinated for Brucellosis today and identified as such by placing a tattoo in their ear.  This is a disease they can get from other cattle, wildlife or people that causes their calf to die before it is born.  This disease is nearly eradicated in the U.S. but has health concerns for people who can get it from cattle as well.  They were also vaccinated against 10 other diseases in a combination to keep them healthy while producing beef to keep us healthy for many years to come.

The Eagle has landed

We were headed to the bull pasture to feed Monday morning (it was -15 F + chill factor) when we came upon this dazed juvinile golden eagle which  Blake easily captured. We have placed him in a barn and will feed him rabbits or prairie rodents and hopefully be able to release him in a few days.  No injuries could be found so suspect he received a concussion from flying into a power line.  By Tuesday afternoon he had become much more alert and was eating well. 

HDQTS (guest house)

When the weather is cold and the evenings are long Blake has been patching nail holes, removing wall paper and repainting the guest house at ranch headquarters.  The living/dining great room, upper level bedrooms, bathroom and kitchen area have been completed with carpet installation in the master bedroom.  A western and wildlife motiff  using prints and origional art work  that the Wohlers family has collected over many years adds to the relaxing atmosphere you can enjoy on your visit.  COME VISIT SOON !    

Unloading hay for cows

Hay was delivered to the ranch today so there will be feed for the cows when the snow is too deep for them to find grass to eat.  So far this winter there has not been that much snow-but just in case.  These bales weigh about 1600 pounds.  A cow will eat 20-25 pounds of feed each day.  Hay and grass contain the energy that a cow needs to stay warm in the winter.  Fortunately the past few days have been mild so the cows are doing well and using the energy to get fat instead of needing it to stay warm.