Stash watched from behind the fence as I worked with his teammate, Topper. They are 8-year-old Scottish Highlander oxen, whom I call the "the boys." In past years, the three of us competed at the Hopkinton Fair – the two of them in a yoke with me (the brains of the outfit) directing their efforts. This year, with no fairs, they need another job, so I've decided to put them to work pulling logs out of the woods to be cut into firewood.
The most crucial factor in a cow's life is her place in the herd. Put a new cow in with others, and the herd goes wild. Sometimes, depending on the new cow's energy, they chase her around the field. Other times the top cow will head-butt the newcomer until she either gives in or becomes the new leader. Once the hierarchy of the herd is re-established, calm returns.
To everyone who came out to feed pumpkins to the cattle, they thank you! If you still have leftover pumpkins, apples, turnips, or any other fresh vegetables, bring them out to the farm during store hours (Wed. 1-5 pm, Thur-Sat 10-5 pm). Topper, The Pumpkin King, will be watching for you!
My older Scottish Highlander steers (I like to call them The Boys) are finally back at the farm after spending most of the summer at Ty Miller's pasture in Canterbury. The Boys stayed at Ty's longer than I planned because I was short of help.
If you don't know what to do with your chemical-free pumpkins, bring them to the farm and smash them on-site. Jack-o-lanterns (without candles) are also popular, carved or not. Smashing is welcome on Wed. from 1-5 pm and Thur.-Sat. 10-5 pm (Please wear a mask and social distance.)
As winter approaches, this farmer's annual war on ice is getting started. It might seem that a cattle farmer's first concern in winter would be keeping her cattle warm, but most cattle would laugh at the cold (if cows could laugh). As long as they have a place to shelter from bitter winds, most cows will stay warm.
