A Very Happy Hen

I took this picture the other day.  I couldn't resist this little red hen sauntering through the pasture seemingly lost in chicken thought...

Jill and her sheep

Jill catching a cat nap

yearling ewe lambs enjoying their day

In less than a year, I've acquired five livestock guardian dogs.  Jill arrived last May to protect the sheep and quickly made herself indispensable in protecting both the sheep and all the poultry on the ranch.  As I leased more pasture land for grazing my sheep, I added three more adult dogs to protect the sheep from predators, primarily coyotes.  And of course, the latest addition, my Akbash puppy, Nia.  The dogs are fearless in their natures — willing to defend the sheep against coyotes or mountain lions.  As the sun begins to set, their "work day" begins as they work throughout the night and nap during the day.  Their loyalty, service and courage are always astounding to me.

My New Year's Resolution

So I've resolved to begin posting again. Last year came and went before I knew it. The ducks were a fun addition to the farm last year — lots of pretty and interesting heritage breeds such as Black Cayuga, Buff, Blue Swedish and Anconas. (I promise pictures later.) Last year also saw the introduction of livestock guardian dogs to the ranch. Jill, a four year old Akbash, arrived last May and has become the great protector of the sheep and poultry. She has been joined by the newest member of the "dog team," Nia (short for Gardenia), a 9 week old Akbash. Nia is in training with three small ewe lambs and when she is bigger will join Jill to help guard the ranch. Nia literally shakes with excitement every afternoon when she watches Jack herd the sheep down from the hillsides and sees Jill rushing in behind them to greet me and have her dinner.