Cattle Whispering for a Beginner Farmer

It's time to start rotationally grazing my Scottish Highland cattle. I really hope I don't screw this up.
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[@gsp0113]

Maybe I'm missing something, but it seems to me you're making rotational grazing more complicated than it needs to be. You've got a lot of land for five cattle. Instead of completely moving the cattle out of one area into an entirely new area each move, why not simply bring in one side of the pen and then extend out the opposite end? You gradually walk the "box" of the pen around your land. Every adjustment of the fence line means 50% of the grazing area is new. The pasture gets grazed on for a maximum of two days. The cattle don't have to migrate any real distance at all. Easy peasy.

[@reanukeeves7180]

this

[@bland9876]

I thought I must be dumb for thinking this and there must be something I don't know.

[@MrBrannfjell]

How would this work without having to do substantial fencing pole movements? Fence up everything, and have a gate between 2 zones always open, and propogate the cattle by moving them through gates? There is probably some smart strategy to utilize if we know what to look for.

[@jamesmelsoner4315]

simply remove the line to the next paddock and walk behind them and put up line from middle of last paddock. don't ever open up a hole that lets them go to anywhere but the next paddock

[@Ben-fk9ey]

@@MrBrannfjell So traditionally (or how we did it) you put an electric fence from one end of the field to the other. Then every day/ other day you move the fence 10 or whatever feet forward. The cows would then eat the new grass, there's no point in fencing them off from the old grass as they don't want to eat it anyway. I get why he wants to keep them in an enclosed space, hence fencing them in the new area as he doesn't have enough cows to properly strip graze the grass traditionally. What he should have done is kept the main horizontal enclosure fence protecting the orchard and moved up the vertical fence to new grass. Then when the cows move up to eat it then fence them in.

[@LegendHold1]

Patience, and trust your dog. Toby is actually doing a fairly good job of pushing the cows in the right direction. Watch when he moves, it's telling you the cow is relaxed and you can move. He's often right. He's got a ton of stock sense.

[@yesyesseyes]

my thoughts exactly

[@jordanbinner4175]

It does look like he knows what you're trying to do kinda 😉

[@mvfc7637]

Toby’s herding instincts came into play during that video.

[@lauriehughes8085]

Toby is a great dog. His puppies in the future should be in high demand.

[@casid9929]

I have 3 border collies ages 11 and two. One day the two 11 yr olds weren't coming when I called. I told the two yr old to "bring em in". He did and hadn't ever been trained to do so. Just his herding instinct kicking in.

[@emmonstrex65]

Uncle Ben's (Urban Rescue) friend's channel just started with cows, and he always rings a bell when feeding, and it's actually working in bringing them in. Only took a couple of times too.

[@jessicapartida7149]

can i get the channel name please?

[@doubledee8677]

Pavlov's cows, eh?

[@Ben-fk9ey]

Wait what has he?? Is that on his patreon or something?

[@emmonstrex65]

@@jessicapartida7149 Matei Farms. Newish channel, cool people. Friends with the Urban Rescue Ranch's Ben.

[@vickiemeisinger9632]

My grandpa and my dad both used a bell initially and then they called the cows,,But that Bell was wrung at the barn...You could be her clear to the back of the acreage/farms no matter how big they were.

[@leynaabbey]

Probably wasn't wise to take down 1 whole side of a perimeter to move them, but you live and learn. Thanks for your transparency, and sharing your journey Morgan.

[@glengillis7775]

That was all his plan

[@DRskeleton654]

@@glengillis7775 wasnt a very thought out plan

[@titanicgirl774]

@@DRskeleton654 what part of “you live and learn” don’t you understand

[@DRskeleton654]

@@titanicgirl774 yeah i lived and learn through alot of things, doesnt change the fact that its still a bad idea

[@oskar3545]

All for the tension

[@ginagruber1732]

Would probably be better if you just make an opening where the next paddock's gate is. Toby was doing his best to help herd though.

[@wgreiter]

Toby knows what he's doing, not the one to worry about. He'll figure it out, the bipedal I mean.

[@guidologo]

He definitely was trying

[@kristinb5121]

Yes, and move the water trough. They’ll gradually shift to the new grass over the course of a few hours.

[@andresandres8752]

This why I love him, he shows his success and failures

[@freedomfighter4990]

YES! We all get to learn from Morgan's mishaps.

[@reneequalls5878]

Exactly!

[@remveel2443]

You can see Toby trying to learn how to herd cattle. He's still a little scared of their horns, but he'll learn eventually and could help you out massively.

[@mvfc7637]

he’s a good dog.

[@AngelMGordon]

Yes i was noticing Toby giving gentle pressure.

[@kdkrueger112]

Honestly confused as to why you didn't make a "gate" where the two grazing areas met, then just open it, put some treats and water in the new space when they move over, you close it up and everything is golden. Easiest way to make sure they don't leave an area you want them in, is to not give them a chance to.

[@Ben-fk9ey]

Dude you made this waaaay harder than it needed to be! You shouldn't have removed the fence keeping them away from the orchard. If cows see new grass they're going for it! You should have instead taken down the fence to where you wanted them to go, either all of it or have a **much** bigger gap than you had and once they were all in then put the fence up behind them. When we did this the cows would strip the new bit of grass every day/other day so whenever we moved the fence further up the field they'd naturally go and eat the untouched grass. Also get some cowfeed and a bucket. At first just put some in a bucket and tip it out for them. After a few days shake the bucket and shout something like "come cow", they should eventually understand and will walk over to you. You can also get them to eat out of the bucket you're holding if you want to. Once they're preoccupied eating the feed you fence them in.

[@TheJakeRobinson]

yep, totally 2nd this... never open a fence to somewhere you don't want cows to go to...

[@TheWinglessHawk]

yep and also instead of trying to make due with the stuff which are already up... get another ropeline for passage-making. There is no shame in getting more gear in for a secured movement of the cows. My solution would be span the whole perimeter and then use separate ropes to section the parts. Fast and simple... and the cows stays secure in their fences.

[@fullofhype]

Yep

[@feosTAS]

@@TheWinglessHawk sounds like you'd be better off having the entire thing fenced and divided in advance, with just some gates that you would close and open when you need?

[@linh8997]

I'm not a cowboy but you do seem to be working hard. Would it not be easier to get behind the cows and sort of shoo them into the spot where you want to go? Or maybe trying putting a little cannabis into those alfalfa cubes. 😀

[@AB-ol5uz]

I was totally confused....why in the world would you open up the back of the pasture BEFORE they were moved?

[@AB-ol5uz]

Please watch how Justin Rhodes moves his cattle....they never break down the old paddock until they have moved them into the new one.

[@miateacher123]

It was crazy!

[@a.a.6203]

I thought the same, connect the two areas then move them

[@BenjaminKlahn]

@@AB-ol5uz To be fair, there's like 3-5 additional bodies helping Justin with that, and this is just one dude.

[@mbdieter7308]

I am thinking maybe he didn't have enough fencing.

[@brettcleveland1106]

Your pushing them the wrong way. You and Toby should be standing up in the orchard as you move them in.

[@SJS-wq5wg]

Concur....gentle push from behind. Don't walk at them & no eye contact watch using your peripheral. Swing wide to get behind them. More poly-shouldn't have rolled up existing boundary b4 in new paddock.

[@daftmeme1081]

Yes exactly...

[@mustafayldrm3449]

He is trying to "pull" the animals, he should learn to "push" actually. A dog would come towards you as you call them. But a cow's nature is to escape from things.

[@tbabs6889]

Morgan: I really don't want the cows to escape into the orchard *removes entire fence keeping cows out of orchard*

[@theconsciouscorgi2103]

I know you have said in the past that your wife usually doesn’t participate in farm activities because it’s more YOUR thing than hers, but I think this may be a chore you need a second set of hands with . If you had a trained herding dog or you rode a quarter horse then I’m sure you could do this chore solo. Have you thought about recruiting her for specific issues like this?

[@heilamessy]

well-said. a well trained border colie would do the job.

[@donaldmiller8629]

Connor Horan , A horse to move five head of cattle ten feet into an adjacent paddock ?? LOL

[@donaldmiller8629]

@@heilamessy , I think that Toby could be used more as a deterrent rather than herding. Just have him sitting in place where you don't want the cattle to go.

[@heilamessy]

@@donaldmiller8629 it seems that the cattle didn't mind Toby presence unless Toby barks at them.

[@donaldmiller8629]

@@heilamessy , I do't know about the Toby breed of dog but Border Collies usually don't bark at animals that they are herding. Instead they give the animals " the look " or sometimes called the stare. And the animals move ! Very rarely will you hear a good cow dog bark at cows. Barking will cause cows to run. And running cows are hard to control and unpredictable. It's been said that Toby is afraid of the horns. He's not. He is much more agile than the cows. I submit that he is more concerned about being kicked or stepped on. You will seldom see a good cow dog close behind a cow. Instead they will be out where a cow can see them and usually on the opposite side of the direction that the dog wants the cow to go. It's the presence of the dog that causes the cow ( s) to move and they will move away from the dog. If the cow is supposed to go right the dog will be on the left side. Or vice versa.

[@guygrotke8059]

I would just move the water trough into the next paddock and take down the electric fence between the two. The next day they will all be grazing in the new paddock. Then you can put the fence back up, move the water trough, and open up the fence to the next paddock. You never have to drive or coax them. Just encourage them to move with water and fresh grass.

[@l.williams6249]

That they would rather graze than get easy treats is a testament to how well you’ve been taking care of your land!

[@imthepopcornman]

Hard to believe this was genuinely plan A. "I really really really don't want them going uphill."...... Removes entire barrier stopping them from going uphill.

[@ScrappyCassy]

Succinctly put

[@JoeSmithpwns]

As someone who grew up on a farm, this was painful to watch....As it will be for you in five years when it's all second nature. By the way, you need to strengthen the barn where the cattle will be. I saw more than one spot where a cows tendency to scratch will knock down those support beams. Alec Bullwin the rust colored cow has to be protected from himself or there will be a body count.

[@lilymullen5418]

There are so many things I caught and I'm a city girl with very limited experience with cows, from working on my ex’s family’s farm to learning as much as possible for my future because I want cattle on a small “boutique/hobby” farm. It's really unfortunate seeing him make these mistakes I truly hope he learns where he is going wrong fast, listens to the more experienced (doesn't sound like it) and take their advice and run with it.

[@stylebreaks757]

Haha Nice name

[@lwr9119]

As someone who did not grow up on a farm this was painful to watch.

[@shellyhiggins3618]

@@lwr9119 🤣

[@caroledney3919]

Toby looks more helpful from what I saw. The cattle didn’t seem to mind him being close. Since I’m finding it hard to follow the move, I’ll just not say anything. Plenty of other Monday morning chair QBs to give free advice! Stay positive, Morgan! 🇺🇸MesquiteTX

[@pookiehoney]

Look at Tobys instincts kicking in! He was trying to help. What a great dog💜

[@ghostunspeakable7866]

He needs some plain clothesline to string up as a temporary fence for moving them. They are very aware of the ropes.

[@MrAwesomeSaucem]

This is a great idea. You can see when he puts the new fence up, all the cattle immediately look up and watch him do it the whole time, even backing up away from it. They definitely know to stay away from the white line.

[@ghostunspeakable7866]

@@MrAwesomeSaucem I was thinking a temporary air lock double gate system. Once the first cows are in, close them in and walk them further in. Then open the outside and.go.for.more.cow.

[@WaddedBliss]

You're in front of them trying to lead them when you should be behind trying to push them. Toby at one point was doing this.

[@13MoonsOverMayhem]

You have definitely figured out the best way to get engagement on KZbin. I feel compelled to give unsolicited advice on something I have no experience with even though I question if you did it this way on purpose. But, here I go. All bow to the analytics Gods... Dont set the wire continuously all the way around a paddock to meet the ends at a corner. Use two. Start them both in the middle of one side of the square or rectangle, string them out and around in opposite directions and meet in the middle of the opposing side of the square or rectangle. Set up the next paddock ahead of time exactly the same way, starting the ends at the same place the adjoining paddock ends. Simply open all four ends where paddock one and two meet to let them through. Then close the ends together on paddock two, and take down paddock one, move it to where paddock three meets paddock two. I wish I could draw you a picture. The way you would draw a square in the air to indicate someone was "square". You will need four total perimeter pieces to make it work if you hopscotch the two paddocks, and they will never have any escape route. It will only be trickier when you have to change the direction you're moving the paddock, but if you can string them out longer than they need to be to make a "chute", or if you can have a few lengths of electric netting to make a chute, you still wont have to risk them having any escape route.

[@camerontaylor8388]

Why remove the fence where you dont want them to go? that made no sense.

[@neverhomecompanion5087]

For content?

[@LarsonFamilyFarm-LLC]

@@neverhomecompanion5087 yeah...i think he was bluffing....cattle are incredible easy to move. open one end where you want them to go and close up the back behind them. They will run for the green taller grass.

[@Berkeloid0]

As he said in the video, he wanted to open the fence at the top right, but the electric wire loop ended at the top left. So rather than rearrange the wire loop so that the opening was at the top right where he wanted it to be, he just wound it back, removing the whole top line. The problem was he thought he'd be able to attract the cattle to where he wanted them to go, and didn't realise that his treats weren't good enough so they just wandered off through the now open fence line. Just comes down to inexperience in understanding how animals react.

[@Silkendrum]

Hey, they're HIGHland cattle. Of course they're going to go UP!

[@evelynsnyder5866]

hehehehe

[@JustaGuy316]

I've lived around cattle for over 20 years (parents own cattle), so I speak from experience with these pointers. There's two schools of thought- fear and temptation. Fear means you scare the cattle where you want them, which is more difficult and less friendly to your cattle. Our preferred method was to entice them to do what you want. Typically this is done with grain (like cracked corn). Grain is very sweet to cattle, and they love it. Too much and it's unhealthy of course, but in moderation it is actually good for them. To entice them, what you need to do over a few days is to get a bucket of grain (think coffee can) and gently shake it so it makes some noise (but not too loud!). Then pour it out on the ground, and step back a ways. They will sniff, and eat it. After a few days they will associate the sound of you the shaking can with tasty grain, and whenever you shake it they will run to you. In this case, competition for their "candy" works in your favor- the first cow gets the most grain. Then, to have them switch pastures, all you have to do is lower a section of your fence (so it doesn't look like you are trying to trap them), shake the can in the new pasture, pour it on the ground, and they will voluntarily (and quickly) go into the new pasture after the grain. However, if it looks like a trap they won't follow it. Same thing if you have a cow that is separated. They are afraid of being separated, but they are even more afraid of the fence. What you can do is- on the opposite side of the pasture, shake the can and feed the others. While they are busy with the grain, open your fence nearest the isolated cow, shake the can with grain in front of them, then pour it out on the ground inside the fence. You may need to step back quite a ways, but the cow should follow the grain, unless it is too freaked out which it will never do what you want it to anyways. All while the other cattle are preoccupied with their share of the grain. And for the love of God, do NOT change pasture every day. Size the pasture pen so it will last a week or two- any more than that is a waste that will stress out your cows unnecessarily.

[@lorettarussell3235]

You apparently don't know or understand the concept of regenerative rotational grazing. Look up Greg Judy. He is an expert on regenerative rotational grazing. He moves his cattle twice a day. Morning & evening.

[@PatrickPoet]

I was confused about why you took down the line across the back before you had them moved. It didn't make sense to just leave that wide open with the cows having access to it.

[@workinprogress5936]

Sounds stupid, but why not fence off the rows of the pasture and keep moving them up the pasture then to the side. Protect your trees and give them more grass to chew on.

[@blaircox1589]

because dummy white rope is too expensive.... He'll learn eventually. He'll figure out (if he hasn't already) to go out and be with them, pet them, feed them until they just follow him around anyway. Ditch those horns as well. It's not Texas.

[@georgedavidson1221]

That is what I was thinking. Or just protect. the trees with. good. wrap. and forget about the rotation. grassing idea This isn’t farmer. Judy with 300 head to move around

[@jammies1431]

@@blaircox1589 They use the horns to defend against predators even though he's got Toby, his breed is just meant to be loud, so even though I could definitely see Toby defending the animals, it's a good idea to make sure the cows can defend themselves and to protect his investment. The cattle also use their horns to itch themselves. Pretty sure he's trying to keep the cattle as natural as possible. He also mentioned that he doesn't want them to get too comfortable around him so they don't accidentally hurt him with their horns or stampeding. I'm sure he'll figure things out as he goes and do what's best for him and his farm.

[@blaircox1589]

@@jammies1431 You actually farm cattle? I don't personally myself, my grandfather did in an area with wolves and cayotes with far less protection than his few. All I know is the horns are not necessary in this circumstance and are an unnecessary risk. He's going to have to interact with them in the confined space of the barn. I'll let any current farmers chime in, but cattle are dehorned for a very good reason. He's likely not able to do it now with these guys so old. Hopefully does it with the calves. - reduce the risk of injury and bruising to herd mates - prevent financial losses from trimming damaged carcasses caused by horned feedlot cattle during transport to slaughter - require less space at the feed bunk and in transit - decrease risk of injury to farm workers, horses and dogs - decrease risk of death, illness and setback by dehorning young calves versus older calves - gain a price advantage by offering hornless cattle at auction - produce docile cattle that are easier to handle - decrease aggressiveness at the feed bunk - enhance on-farm safety for animals, producers and employees - facilitate easier use of handling facilities

[@jammies1431]

@@blaircox1589 Nope, just talking about things that Morgan has mentioned in other videos to explain why he's doing what he's doing. Not saying its the best way or anything. It's nice to see him fail and learn even when there's a ton of people watching, screaming "why is he doing it like that!?" Takes some gut to put your mistakes on blast, knowing the reaction people will have. There's a ton of really good recommendations in the comment section, so I'm excited to see the changes he makes. Your comment about their horns in the barn pair well with another comment mentioning how the male especially may end up injuring himself or members of the flock, scratching the support beams. He's definitely got a lot of growth to do, but he has been really open to speaking with folks and talking about things he's changed, so I'm excited to see how this all plays out. Live and learn.

[@spiv]

thank you for filming this experience. it looks really tough to work with the cattle without filming the whole process the whole time, but i appreciate being part of the experience.

[@fostecc]

Toby is so good with the animals and is going slow behind the wayward cow. He deserves a special treat.

[@AFAndersen]

At 16:00 when trying to get the 5th cow in with the other 4... instead of taking the fence out (both limiting the 5th cow's way to get in, while also opening the fence to the other 4 cows), it would be better to open the fence inward, making a corridor you can try to get her in through. The other cows would still see a closed fence, and no exits. Kind of how you catch crabs and lobsters.

[@DELTA-bq3vd]

You should create a kind of corridor that would connect all the squares so that they can run everywhere each time you open the gate

[@92Pyromaniac]

I know it's one thing to sit on youtube and criticise having never herded cattle before, and another entirely to actually do this stuff in practice. With that said.. you made some really weird decisions here. Why on earth would you break down the old pen before moving them into the new one? Of course they were going to leave - why wouldn't they? If you give a nervous animal a choice between a confined area and a larger space, it will always choose the larger space where it knows it has more opportunity to run away. Your ducks and geese must surely have taught you that. All you needed to do was set up the new pen adjacent to the old one and leave an opening between them. The cows would naturally move to the better pasture, and then you could just come back in an hour or two and close the gap, then break down the old pen.

[@flyingkage]

Cattle always look and go for a hole or opening. When moving them put yourself opposite of that hole and push them through it. Also have you figured out who your lead cow is? It might help in moving the herd.

[@LarsonFamilyFarm-LLC]

..with my herd it's Mr. Bull...he's always watching me...grab any green or red cattle cube bag and shake...all will come running....of course, i don't tease them or bluff them...they will always get a treat...so they always come.

[@diceportz7107]

I'd say it was that blond cow that stayed back. lol

[@dianereid9600]

Put a bell on your lead cow. Always knew

[@Fenthule]

this content is incredibly mooooving. *sees myself out*

[@angelamarie4137]

We're all so proud of you, Morgan. Thank you for sharing all of your experiences and allowing us to be a part of this new project with you. You'll learn as you go. There's definitely a learning curve with cattle.

[@hoi5421]

I’ve seen people put foam on the cattle’s horns when moving them. When you and them are more comfortable it might come in handy!

[@nancyparker3732]

Pool noodles from Dollar Tree?

[@hoi5421]

@@nancyparker3732 yes, they would work, but I’ve never been to dollar tree because I’m in the uk

[@TheDaisytails]

@@nancyparker3732 😀

[@zeldapinwheel7043]

I was going to say, I've seen goats and cattle with tennis balls and pool noodles on their horns.

[@Qub3rs]

To the cows, Toby's just one of them at this point. Toby's the smaller, fluffier cow.

[@saraschneider6781]

Tiny fluffy cow!🤣🤣🤣

[@donnagelina8548]

This cracked me up!

[@juztyn00]

You may find it easier to open up 2 sections together, move the water to the new section and come back the next day and close off the old section. Cows are curious and will explore the new area on their own.

[@ithilweenshadowsong8151]

As other people suggested, make the box more simple and make your life easier although I wonder why you don't create an electrified perimeter around the trees and let the cattle be free, after all they are all inside the big fence and the birds seem to know they don't need to mess with them.

[@RoseThistleArtworks]

I think it is a grass saving technique. If they are in a big area, they will just pick and choose certain grasses, leaving less desirables to flourish and reseed. Having them in small areas mean they eat the whole area down, then move on to the new fresh area and do the same equally.

[@Psychodog5690]

Hi I love your videos, one tip that I think might help you is to never be in front of the cows when your going to move them because they will go the other direction, always work behind them and that way you will make them go the direction that you want.

[@woahblackbettybamalam]

I think you made this way harder than it needed to be

[@SpacedApe]

Yeah, maybe I misunderstand, but it looks like he gave them the option of going through a small area using treats or run away into the bigger area. Unless there just isn't enough wire, why not string along the top and bottom, guide them to the other side, and then string down the middle to close them back off? I dunno, I try not to judge since I'm not there and I don't know the whole situation. I know dude's not a moron, so I'm sure there was a reason.

[@woahblackbettybamalam]

@@SpacedApe I have no clue why he opened up the fence where he didn’t want them to go. He should have opened the whole side on the right then closed them in

[@slidenapps]

Looks like way to much work.

[@SpacedApe]

@@slidenapps Could be, but like my Father taught me, better to do something right the first time than have to do it again because you didn't.

[@GlendaMoore]

"The Maremma's herding instinct is highly developed and the dog is happiest when at work tending its flocks. They will be loyal to their master and devoted to their flock but intolerant of intruders." So .... why don't you let Toby Dog herd the cows?? He can watch over the geese/ducks/chickens and still herd cattle - he's smart enough to know the difference.

[@DanishButterCookie]

Theres a difference to being trained to herd in a set direction and just herding them for the sake of herding them

[@Alexa-hs5bd]

Maremmas arent herding dogs

[@donaldmiller8629]

Glenda Moore , You and others probably don't know this but Rottweiler dogs are also herders. The dogs originally came from Italy. They were used by the Roman army's to move their herds of cattle , goats and sheep along with the marching army. No refrigeration you know. So the meat was kept alive on the hoof until needed. The dogs were adopted by a town in Germany and they began to breed the dogs. After that the dogs became known as German dogs. I had a Rottweiler and she could easily go over my four foot chain link fence. Which she did every once in awhile. After an hour of two she would come home. Herding one to four deer ahead of her right into my back yard because I had left the gate open for her. Of course she expected that I would give her some praise because , " she had done her job ." Of course as soon as I let her into the house the deer were gone over the fence.

[@lindalumae]

I love that you shares your wins and losses. You’ll be an expert cow handler in no time!

[@holdenleeb2312]

I’m confused, can someone explain why he opened the back of the fence before they were in the new paddock?

[@madeleine363]

I’m wondering if he actually thought this was a good way to do things or if he just thought it would make an interesting video 🤔🤨

[@zo1592]

I feel like he does things wrong just to rile up the comment section and boost engagement for the algorithms and views

[@JuFated]

Maybe set a bit of a permanent fencing on the space before the orchard area? That at least they wont think it's an option to go there if you have to move them again? Also miiight need an actual herding dog. Toby's a good boy but that's not what he's bred for.

[@aestheticatadams7835]

Toby had that first cow on first day, but you called him back. Toby needs to get behind them and herd them- let Toby help you!

[@finleysmom6390]

Toby would never screw things up💕 you are doing a great job. Your heart is in it & that’s what matters!!

[@sierrahestum8007]

Was it just me or was that a “because today I will be MOOoving the cattle”. 🤣

[@ebybeehoney]

I'm still for getting a heeler or maybe even a trained Corgi - they are supposed to be drovers. A good cattle dog wouldn't let them go anywhere you didn't want them. Especially because it's just you doing all this work. For one person this is a lot of work!

[@mvfc7637]

Good to see Toby instinctively try and herd the cows, he’s a good dog and he even managed to identify the stubborn cow was going to be a problem.

[@rhade3845]

one thing you might try in the future, is instead of taking down the outside fence line completely, is just to unhook it from the posts, and walk with the line around the cows, to try and corral them in the direction you want. IF they recognize the line as a hard barrier to not try and push past, they hopefully will take the easier path into the open pasture.

[@christinedehn3257]

A white rope about the same width as the fencing could be used without taking down the outside fence (containment backup). Just to gently crowd them toward the gate opening, although, there really is no reason to hurry them. If you had 3 cross fences, cattle between 1 & 2, #3 set up to make new paddock. Move water, minerals to corner of new paddock farthest from gap /gate. Open gap in fence #2. Leave and feed the birds, collect eggs, progress on some project, lunch. Back to cattle. They should have moved to fresh grass and water. Now would be a good time to visit, deep in new paddock, with treats. Close gap in fence 2. Pick up fence 1 and move it to set up boundary for tomorrows paddock. Rinse / Repeat

[@whereswendy8544]

When I wanted to move my pigs who were penned with electric fence, it took them days to figure out that the fence wire was no longer there. They were so wary of the invisible boundary, thinking it would still sting them.

[@woahblackbettybamalam]

Im the same with the table I banged my shin on

[@willgaukler8979]

funny ... I still remember the first time I pissed on electric fence wire .... once was plenty enough to remember ...

[@NLance]

Why... would you remove the old fence before herding in the cows to the new fenced in area? I mean, I know you are a beginner is this and I am not even a farmer but even I knew that was a bad idea and I didnt understand what the heck you were doing. My logic: Create new fenced in area, leave a gate for them, open up the old fence to make a corridor where they can go in, then use the feed to lure them into the new area. Once the cattle is secured, then remove the old fence. This... was very hard to watch. Sometimes you got to listen to common sense.

[@willgaukler8979]

... seemed good to him at the time tho ...

[@charlescunningham4314]

I truly appreciate your videos and can relate on so many levels. Thank you for being willing to show both your failures and successes. You have motivated me more each time.

[@alicemaggio8854]

Perfect music choice for the big move. While, yes, you are still learning, you are doing a great job. Thanks for sharing your ups and downs.

[@robynwilson842]

I’m a city girl but damn that was painful to watch. I feel like there has to be a much easier way to do ut

[@robynwilson842]

It

[@obijuanjackoby105]

YESSSS i’ve been anticipating the next video!

[@sarahwalters8454]

Love your content. It's great that you share your learning experiences honestly. I love how you are figuring out how to move cattle in your own way that works for you. My brain starts to scream get a horse while watching this but that is not best for you or the cattle, and I really appreciate watching you do this your way and the way that is right for your animals

[@jax33881]

Loving watching u herding these cows. U r getting the hang of it. Watching from Winter Haven Florida. 💕🐮🐮🐮🐮🐮🐕🦆

[@annw.8619]

Maybe it would help to put up a second fenceline in front of the orchard as a "safety net" so they can't run off. This Fenceline can then be moved slowly to sort of drive them into the new pasture.

[@yadayada752]

Just fill the water trough & they will come down, just like before.

[@RoseThistleArtworks]

They do need to drink eventually, and usually that is a group event.

[@lavacakez5912]

I like how you actually show us your mistakes as well as your wins. You're human, just like us. Yeah, taking down that fence first was a dumb move, but this is a learning experience!

[@bobbiemooser7417]

I love watching you learn, because we all can learn something too. Thank Morgan, for showing it.❤️I also think the clicking sound winding up the wire makes them nervous.

[@aron8949]

You are frustrating to watch sometimes, but I still live vicariously through your videos.

[@mtb8300]

I love this channel, but sometimes I nearly pull my hair out watching him do things. That video where he unraveled the hose a few months back just about had me yelling at my computer.

[@harrietcarpenter2387]

I think u did the best u could. Not to worry. Ur going to get this switching down to a science.

[@13wolfy13]

Hey! Something I can speak from experience with! Back on my grandfather's farm, he'd open a small 'door' between the pastures you want to change them between. Leave the treats and water over there, wait a while, then close the door when the cattle finally moove over. Then close the door quickly after you see them all over there. It's slower, but honestly you can leave them unattended and do other chores while you wait. Just don't take down the old pasture until they've done their shuffle into the new one.

[@paulthomas8262]

toby has excellent herding instinct, he went behind and closed the "door".

[@PoeticMelody]

Why wouldn't you have just made an opening in the middle and left the back fence alone???

[@charlenemorris5516]

My dads cows use to come when they heard his truck drive in the driveway. He had it easy. Good luck

[@wgreiter]

I do the same for a molasses treat and a teat massage

[@MattO109]

Love the progression! Good for you must feel rewarding to gain their trust

[@Pinion512]

The only problem I can think of, with moving them daily, is that the poop doesn't have time to really get started naturally breaking down before the cows are back in the same area. Not to mention just the time involved in having to do that daily. Granted, the cows will get accustomed to it rather quickly and you'll find them ready to go in the mornings pretty quick.

[@donaldmiller8629]

Pinions512, Morgan has enough land so that he could easily have a dozen or more paddocks. Thus it would be two weeks or more before the cattle would be back at the first paddock. This is to give the grass time enough to regrow. In the meantime , two or three days after the cattle leave a paddock , you turn out a flock of chickens into the vacated paddock. They eat the fly larva and spread out the manure.

[@kinas88]

I think you should have one extra poly wire outside the first one to keep cows in check and not give them any opportunity to escape.

[@donaldmiller8629]

Damian , The cattle did not exactly escape. Morgan merely gave them a choice between good grass and some lush grass. One of them chose the very lush grass and the others followed her.

[@monkeyfunk8371]

Would have gone ok if the fence had been set up in a way that meant you only had to open a section into the new paddock.

[@Dreamydazefarm]

I love your cattle adventures your doing a great job !!!

[@IronAngel13th]

I love the way there was a duck that was laughing ard the 9:13 mark when u failed. like it was mocking you

[@azalien3212]

everyones giving unsolicited advice in the comments n I just came here to tell you that I enjoy your videos all of them. keep up the good work!

[@Tijnas617]

Cows already escaped and ran all over land a few days ago. Morgan: I'm going to open up the enclosure that I struggled so hard to get the cows into Cows predictably escape again. Morgan: Oh well, I guess you live and you learn :') Lol, enjoying these videos.

[@stevegroark2034]

"Grass puppy," had me cracking up. Giving them that cake to get them moving, nice.

[@nancydeis7121]

I admire you so much. You are putting the good and the bad out there and that is not easy to do.I know absolutely nothing about cattle or any farming but I am learning from a person who is learning. And that is amazing.

[@hollyhughes4158]

They will always go where you don’t want them to go, if they can.

[@ev304]

im confused why you opened up half the whole fenceline to get them in a small hole ????

[@Ezlpo]

It is fun to watch someone who hasn’t worked cattle try to work cattle. This is great for new cattle ranchers to see this and learn it isn’t as easy as it looks. Best of luck tomorrow!

[@SlayLaVee]

Been enjoying all the videos over the past month! Glad I came across this channel on Facebook!

[@dandandandandanJr]

I really don't think it's a good idea to disassemble the fencing before your cattle are moved. Even if it means you have to have a second set of fencing, have a new pen set up before you try to move them. Then pull down the dividing wall and heard them over.

[@jerrysberrys3415]

I want you to go watch. Just a few acres farm , you might learn something like how much grass they eat ,his winter pasture is nearly as big as your whole farm

[@wendyweaver8749]

Morgan, I seem to remember you mentioning a connection with The Hollar Homestead. Have you watched the videos showing Ben moving his pigs? You may find his system suitable for your cattle. He places the portable electric fencing around the new paddock then opens a gateway from the old into the new. The pigs follow the food buckets as Ben leads them to at least the middle of the new paddock. Ben then moves the water barrel and closes the gateway. The last task is taking down the fencing around the old paddock.

[@keyc.1109]

You have successfully showed all of us who want to start rotational grazing how not to do it. You learn these things and we learn through you. You WILL get this figured out. At least cows aren't as delicate as baby birds.

[@txferretgirl]

you should take time each day to train them to the sound of the bucket so they will keep moving towards it easier

[@dyannejohnson6184]

May I ask…cannot this be done in reverse so that the vulnerable fence it is taken down after paddock secured?

[@torg5511]

What fun! Reminds me of a family tale. My granddad bought a bull from a nearby farm. It was close, so he walked it back to the ranch along the country lane leading it by a rope through a ring in it's nose. In the Fourties, timber was king here in Oregon and eventually a log truck came down the lane towards them. The bull enraged, charged the truck and gored the radiator. Sadly my grandad took the bull back and had the radiator repaired. An old Thanksgiving table tale. Good luck ongoing with your shaggys and Happy Thanksgiving!

[@katjordan3733]

I am watching your learning/training process very closely. I had 3 horses, added poultry, then alpacas and considered getting a couple feeder calves. I'm afraid of cattle, and while yours don't appear aggressive, I get a little tense watching you work with them. Those horns chill my blood. Best Wishes!

[@defeatSpace]

The geese are like little lawn clippers and the cows are like steam rollers.

[@defeatSpace]

You might succeed better from setting up the paddocks so that the seams, like where you start removing the line, coincide with where the next paddock will be.

[@jamescasey3170]

Thought the same thing. If he was stuck with the reel for the fence line at that end, then he could have put his next paddock at that end, run it down the alley between the tree rows. But I don't know if he can easily get the water out that far, so I'm sure that was a factor in setting up the next paddock as he did... Still, taking down such a long section of back fence, in a direction he didn't want them to go, showed more optimism than wisdom. The goal should always be to limit the animals option to the one you choose for them.

[@StormWolfJachinDue]

And now the Gold Shaw Farm Barber Shop Quartet! Release the Quacken! Release the Quacken! Release the Quacken! Release the Quacken! RELEASE THE QUACKEN! Those three simple words are what made a fan of this channel. I hope you do well with your cattle.

[@tufayared]

It takes me a week to drive to California from Minnesota and back. So ironic that is exactly how long it takes you to move the cattle across the field. No pun intended, I just love sitting on the couch and watching you on my home time.

[@kristinawebb9615]

Sometimes when mothers are pregnant and close to delivering they will try and hide themselves out of view to protect calf’s so possibly she’s looking for safe spots to have a baby and your pasture idea isn’t her idea lol

[@nrgbunni.]

He said she's a very young cow so I doubt she's pregnant but the others are apparently

[@donaldmiller8629]

Kristina Webb , You are somewhat correct. Highland cattle are accustomed to dropping their calves out in the field without human help. Unlike highly domesticated dairy cows that humans are accustomed to pulling calves in a barn. I have noticed that many people here are thinking that the Highlands will have to be enclosed in a barn over the winter. Good luck with that, These are very hardy cattle that will prefer to be outside ! At most they only require a lean to like structure as a wind break. In their homeland of Scotland these cattle never see a barn or even a lean to. They go behind piles of rock for shielding from the cold winds.

[@tiffany02020]

Haha moving cows on camera is kinda like using a chainsaw on camera in that it invites a whole lot of unsolicited advice and commentary from strangers 😂

[@thenae8572]

@@Tanks_In_Space Reckon it was more of an observation than advice from Chevy 😂 and an accurate one LOL

[@joshuarangel8591]

Greetings from Brazil! I'm not a cow handling expert at all, I've never had to move a cow before. But it seems like they recognize the electrical fence visually, so why don't you keep an external perimeter using a mock electrical fence (like with some type of white cord that looks the same as the electrical fence) while you are reorganizing the elctrical fence perimeter for the new area.

[@neenajaydon9641]

I don't have direct experience with cattle, and I'm not trying to offer advice, but this does remind me of how keeping horses and rabbits has taught me that if you leave a hole, they WILL find it! Cattle seem to have that same ability to read your mind and stay two steps ahead of you.