We've long been fascinated by Maisie's watchful flock dog behavior. I've always just chalked that up to growing up with Hank as her best friend. I'd like to think he taught her everything she knows. And maybe/probably that's true.
When she basically forced her way into Easy Breezy this winter I noticed that she was no longer guarding the back of the barn as much anymore. I've pondered on that and maybe she feels ineffective behind the closed gate now or maybe feels more secure behind the gate...or maybe she just decided to retire.
After the coyote incident last week...
...I've found Krista and Maggie sitting out back every night and/or early morning. Now they have done this off and on for as long as they've been in the main flock, but up until now, not every night. Krista is still a very devoted mother and as street smart as they come. I think they are out there with a purpose.
I took the above picture this morning. It was actually still pitch dark, but the iPhone can draw in crazy amounts of light we can't see so I was able to enhance it to show Maggie sitting in Maisie's old spot with Maisie nearby.
I love to watch the sheep and try to figure out who's doing what and why. Hank and Salt were interesting as well. Bea is super interesting to observe, but not in a peaceful flock sort of way ;-). Cats are cats...
I think we may have a new flock guardian sheep. Interestingly, she too is a very small white sheep. And note that her big brother (nor any of the other boys) is not out there with her...as per usual ;-).
7 comments:
The very best guardians are the ones who see a need and volunteer to fill it. She's smart enough to know that somebody needs to be watching. Maybe the boys aren't as serious minded. ;-)
You never know what or why some animals do what they do...maybe they are in training...Maisie started a movement! Guardian Sheep Rock!!
Are they OUTSIDE of the gate of the barn, that's what it looks like? Do they just not come in with the others?
I think it's a maternal instinct to be on guard. In a horse herd there is always one mare who is the one who checks for danger and rallys the herd as needed.
We have a coyote problem here too.
... not in a peaceful flock sort of way. :-)
The gate in the picture is the gate for Easy Breezy. The whole barn lot is gated off just down the hill. You can frequently see that gate in Good Morning pictures on IG :-).
Interesting about the mares. These two geldings are mostly just goof offs. Maybe they're up to more than that, but it doesn't show haha.
We've entered the coyote breeding season here. That one yip could have been a mate call. You were wise to take great care---as you well know. Maybe time for another Hank.
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