Larry The Bull Finds His Dream Cow

The Cow Taxi (our big pickup with stock trailer) has been busy shuttling cattle this week. I felt like a Soccer Mom delivering these cows to this field and those to another. Miles Smith Farm now has three active off-farm pastures: one in Barnstead and two pastures in Canterbury. This was a week of sorting and delivering cows, heifers, and bulls to the correct field so that nine months from now – springtime – calves are born.

Our bulls had been loaned out to other farmers until this week. Larry, a 5-year-old Hereford bull, was hanging out with the Potters' herd in Gilmanton and a 4-year-old named Washington was in Plymouth with Dick Piper's herd. Dick returned Washington to our farm, but husband Bruce and I had to go pick up Larry, who had a problem with our timing. The Potters' herd of 80 cattle includes one enchantress with an ear tag identifying her as No. 37. She is a petite black-and-white heifer with a swing to her step and come-hither look in her eye. Larry, a devoted lover, would not leave her side sticking to her like a bear with honey.

During his stay, 37 had become Larry's lucky number, and he refused to consider getting into the trailer.

How do you move an unwilling bull? One way is to entice him with an attractive cow (preferably in heat.) The Potter cattle, including No. 37, were strangers to us, and therefore not to be relied upon for a delicate maneuver. So we had brought along a lovely, black 2-year-old Highlander heifer named Riley. She has long black hair, brushed silky smooth, with bangs hanging half-way down her face. Riley is easy to lead and obedient; the perfect enchantress.

We parked the Cow Taxi in the middle of the Potters' pasture, where it was surrounded by cows, steers, and calves. I led Riley out and paraded her past Larry. He gave her a sniff and then turned his attention back to No. 37. He was ready to ask her what color they should paint the nursery.

Plan B: Food is an excellent way to motivate any animal...

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Carole Soule is co-owner of Miles Smith Farm, where she raises and sells pastured pork, lamb, eggs and grassfed beef. She can be reached at cas@milessmithfarm.com.