|
|
|
Weaning Calves, Shipping
Yearlings Occupies Matador Ranch Cowmen
Matador Ranch Cattlemen begin gathering cows and calves for weaning. (photo by Cara Wilson.) |
Matador Ranch cattlemen and day workers know that it takes early mornings and late
evenings to get the work done. Starting before sunrise and working through the
100-degree heat of midday into the evening, this is the time of year to gather the cows
and their calves and separate them for the first time in their lives. The determination
of the cowboy and his horse must match and exceed that of the cow and her calf.
There
are over 3,500 pairs to be split, and the calves are branded. The job takes about two
months. Then the calves have time to settle down and get used to the separation before
being gathered in the fall when the steers will be sold, along with a portion of the heifers.
The yearlings need not be smug, however, because it is time to face a
new period of their lives as well. Stocker yearlings are being gathered and shipped to
feedyards where they will be prepared for market.
Remember that all of this is just a
side job, because each the five full-time cowboys also has to take care of the livestock
on his assigned camp. A highlight of the workday, however, is enjoying the great cooking
of Wanda Kilmer, Kassi Beshirs, and Deana Washington each day at the Cook House.
Cattlemen include Bob Kilmer, J.D. Russell, Kris Wilson,Tim Washington, Gilbert
Guerrero, and Mickey Beshirs. Day workers for the year are Colton Russell, Rod Smith,
Casey McNeely, Kye Fuston, Tommy Cooper, Jimbo Humphreys, Devin Ballard, and Bill Smith.
|
|
Don't miss the upcoming DOVE HUNTS. Call 806.347.2600, 806.347.2645, or 806.422.0196 today.
 |
Matador Ranch News
Summer 2010
|
Gelding Does Well at Caprock Ranchers Futurity and Sale
A two-year-old gelding was offered at the annual Caprock Ranchers Futurity and Sale July 17.
A son of the 7's Heatwave and out of a Playgun / Little Peppy bred mare, he is very gentle and made a great Futurity prospect.
|
Matador Ranch Web Site
Enter the NAME THE DEER contest on our Facebook page and be eligible for a prize from the Lodge ProShop.
|
|
|
Akaushi Herd Enjoys
Extra Weeks of Green Grass
The green pastures of an unusually wet spring and summer has the Matador Ranch Akaushi (Japanese for red cow) herd looking sleek and fat.
Assistant Manager J.D. Russell is pleased with the herds performance and is considering purchasing additional animals.
Akaushi were developed to produce "heart healthy" beef that retains the flavor and texture of a choice grade product. The beef can be purchased from Heart Brand Beef at http://heartbrandbeef.com.
|
|
Deer Population Flourishing
Pasture Conditions Benefit Both Deer and Cattle
Both high-fence and pasture deer are in the best condition in years. Fawn survival is high, and there have been an increase in multiple births.
Les Woolsey, the Ranch Hunting Manager, said he has pictures of bucks weighing up to 250 pounds made with his motion-detection cameras situated near feeders. Les and his assistants Shane Taylor and John Martin are working with wildlife biologist Bobby Bunyton to provide the healthiest and best nourished deer population in Texas.
Hunting dates are still available, but interest is high. Call Les today to secure your reservation. His cell is 806.422.0196 or email him at woolseyl@kochind.com
|
|
About Us
Kim Woolsey is busy reviewing recipes and preparing the kitchen for the upcoming hunting season. She will be preparing upscale fare that will rival the finest restaurants. Kim joined several other culinary enthusiasts recently when Chef Frank Cordero of Lubbock presented a four-day, intensive workshop on the art of preparing exquisite entrees, delectable desserts, amazing sauces, and irresistible homemade bread. Lodge guests will remember the food they enjoyed as one of the many highpoints of their stay at the Matador Ranch. |
|
|
|
|
|
Save
10% |
A special shipment of Boyt Harness Company fleece pullover Henley style hunting shirts has arrived. Perfect for the active hunter, this shirt features a triple-layered construction which includes two layers of Microfiber fleece for warmth and a special membrane that resists wind and moisture. With our waterproof/windproof clothing, you'll always be warm, dry and weatherwise. Available in sizes M-3XL. Loden Green.
|
Boyt Fleece | |
|
|
|
