Guard duty

Nighthiker · Joined: 05 Jan 2003 Posts: 1714

Was planning on meeting up with some folks for cycling this past weekend near Flagstaff but opted for another vehicle camping trip near Clints Well. While on the usual night hike came across a small heard of cattle slumbering peacefully alongside the trail. Since most appeared the size of rhinos I did not want to wake them. While working my way thru the herd, a large dark colored one (quietly to) came out of nowhere. Not sure if it wanted to head butt or tip me over, though I am quite sure he/she was on guard duty. Left the heard without further incident or injury and the ones sleeping did not wake up.

Hikngrl · Posted: 8/7/2006, 9:12 pm Post subject:

Un-nerving....
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~~~Diane~~~

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PageRob · Joined: 03 Mar 2005 Posts: 859 Location: Page, Az.

I spooked a small herd on the North Kaibab, had some of our birds following them, waiting of one to drop dead...
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Anywhere is within walking distance if you spend the time.

Sande J · Posted: 8/7/2006, 9:38 pm Post subject:

I have been camping and horsebacking alot this summer in that same area. I have seen many herds since alot of this area is open range near the V Bar V. Had sort of the opposite experience, was resting and heard some rustling in the trees and noticed about 10 of them staring at us. Luckily, my ride was saddled up nearby, so I thought I would have some fun and pushed them up a ridge for a short distance. Them lil dogies move out pretty good Razz

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azbackpackr · Posted: 8/8/2006, 7:46 am Post subject:

Cows and steers have this sort of dumb curiosity. They will often follow you, and will always stare at you. They won't hurt you. Bulls, on the other hand, you might want to be careful. Some of them are just as docile as the cows and steers, though.

I could get on my soapbox here about cattle ranching in AZ. Put the ranchers out of business and what do you get? They sell off their private land to developers. So then instead of cows you have golf courses and condos. I'd rather have the cows, even though they can be hard on the land.