Curious calves

A couple of calves checking out the deep snow on Upper Owl Creek. Cattle are incredibly hardy but this winter has definitely mad a rancher's job a little difficult and unpredictable at times. Newborn calves have a special body tissue called "brown adipose tissue" that is designed to help them deal with cold temperatures. During cold temperatures this special fat is broken down and creates heat that helps the calf keep warm. However, very cold conditions can overcome this protective mechanism and calves die. The extra moisture this year also has its challenges as far as illnesses for the young calves and ranchers are having to monitor the calves a lot closer this year than in past years.