The Calves Are Growing Up
Many of this year's calves are already approaching two months old. From nursing and staying close to their mothers to finding water and exploring pasture on their own, they are becoming more independent every day.
It's hard to believe, but many of this year's calves are already approaching two months old.
The calf in this picture is a good example.
A few weeks ago its entire world revolved around its mother. Today it's standing on its own, finding water, exploring the pasture, and becoming more independent every day.
That transition happens remarkably fast.
One of the things I enjoy most about calving season is watching how quickly calves change. They go from newborns that rarely leave their mothers' side to young animals that begin exploring the world around them.
They start sampling grass.
They learn where the water is.
They spend more time with other calves.
Little by little, they start learning how to be cows.
Most of the work is being done by their mothers.
The calves are still nursing, but every week they become a little more independent.
That's exactly what we hope to see.
Healthy calves are active. They're curious. They're growing. They spend their days moving around pasture, resting in the shade, and following the herd.
This year's calf crop has gotten off to a good start.
As I walk through the pastures, I'm always reminded how quickly these young animals change. The same calves that seemed so small just a few weeks ago are already beginning to look and behave differently.
The calf in this picture is a good example of that progression.
A few weeks ago it needed its mother for everything.
Today it's standing by itself at the water tank without much concern for where she happens to be.
That's usually a sign things are going well.
One of the things I enjoy about raising cattle is watching these transitions.
One day you're checking on a newborn calf that's still figuring out how to stand.
A few weeks later you find that same calf across the pasture drinking water on its own and acting like it has the whole thing figured out.
Before long these calves will be grazing alongside the rest of the herd and relying more on pasture than milk.
For now, they're in that in-between stage.
No longer newborns.
Not quite grown up.
But well on their way.
Good food begins with a place.
And for these calves, that place is a Central Indiana pasture.
FAQ's
When do calves become independent from their mothers?
Calves gradually become more independent over several months. While they continue nursing, they begin grazing, drinking water, exploring pasture, and spending time with other calves long before they are fully weaned.
Do calves drink water if they are still nursing?
Yes. Even while nursing, calves begin drinking water and eating small amounts of forage as their digestive systems develop and they spend more time away from their mothers.
What does a healthy calf look like?
Healthy calves are active, alert, curious, and growing steadily. They spend time moving around pasture, interacting with the herd, drinking water, and learning how to function independently.
Why are calves raised on pasture?
Pasture gives calves room to move, explore, socialize, and gradually transition toward a forage-based diet. It also allows them to stay with the herd while they grow.
What do calves eat besides milk?
As they grow, calves begin sampling grass and other forage while continuing to nurse. Over time, forage becomes a larger part of their diet.
What does this have to do with grassfed beef?
The health of the herd begins with healthy calves. Strong mothers, healthy pasture, clean water, and good grazing management all contribute to the long-term health of the animals we raise.
