In the world of ranching, spring marks a significant and exciting time: calving season. This is when most new calves are born, symbolizing the start of a new cycle of life on the ranch. It’s one of the most rewarding times of the year, offering both challenges and joy as ranchers help bring new life into the world. 

At the Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust, we appreciate the willingness of our landowner-partners to share their knowledge and expertise with communities near and far. Their stewardship is truly inspiring and while ranching is always a 24/7, 365-day-a-year job, calving requires even greater attention and care.

Ranches across the region typically calve anywhere between February and May depending on the ranch’s specific management goals, weather conditions and grazing permits. While the weather during this time can be unpredictable — ranging from snow squalls and muddy conditions to warm sunshine — all in the same day, there are strategic reasons behind the variation in this timing. 

For instance, Cold Mountain Ranch in Carbondale calves primarily in March, so calves have more time to grow stronger before the herd moves to summer grazing pastures.

The ranch utilizes U.S. Forest Service grazing permits, and when the cows and calves get to public lands at the end of June, the older calves can better keep up with the herd and tend to do better on these landscapes.

Preparing for calving season involves stocking up on essential supplies: identification tags, treatments for common ailments like scours (diarrhea), and medications for infections or respiratory issues. As calving begins, the routine becomes intensive — regular checks are carried out from dawn until late into the night. 

When a calf is born, it may be tagged, vaccinated, given a probiotic to support gut health, and treated with iodine on the navel to prevent infection. Ranchers watch for signs of imminent labor, such as a full udder or changes in tail posture.

If a cow shows signs of distress, assistance may be needed — especially in cases of a breech birth or a calf that’s too large to be delivered easily. In such situations, timing and technique are critical to ensure the calf’s survival. 

Occasionally, complications may arise, as both genetics and presentation play a big role in the amount of needed assistance. Some calves are born with the amniotic sac still intact and need immediate help to avoid suffocation. Twins can present additional challenges, as a cow may not accept both calves. Ranchers may step in to ensure the calves get the support they need in those early hours and days. 

Cold weather adds another layer of difficulty. A calf suffering from hypothermia might be brought indoors, warmed by a stove, and fed colostrum — rich in antibodies — to support its immune system. Once a calf is on the ground and breathing well, ranchers can step aside and let each mother cow do her job.

As the season progresses, ranchers turn their attention to other tasks like repairing fences and cleaning irrigation ditches. However, late calvers still require care and attention.

Each ranching operation is unique. Decisions such as calving dates, level of intervention and herd management strategies vary depending on goals, available resources and local conditions. There is no one-size-fits-all approach — each ranch finds the balance that works best for them.

Marj Perry is the owner of Cold Mountain Ranch. Karina Puikkonen is with Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust.