What are the common duties of a cowboy on a ranch, besides riding and roping?
Cowboys have many duties on a ranch besides riding and roping. Some of the most common duties include:
1. Cattle herding: This involves moving cattle from one pasture to another, or to a holding area for branding or vaccinations.
2. Fence maintenance: Cowboys are responsible for maintaining the fences that keep cattle in, and predators out. This includes repairing any damage caused by weather, wildlife or cattle.
3. Water management: Cattle need water, so cowboys must ensure that water sources such as ponds, creeks and troughs are clean and accessible to the cattle.
4. Equipment maintenance: Cowboys must maintain and repair their equipment, such as saddles, bridles, ropes and trailers.
5. Ranch maintenance: Cowboys are responsible for maintaining the ranch, including buildings, roads, and other infrastructure.
6. Ranch management: In addition to their physical duties, cowboys often play a role in the management of the ranch, working with the ranch manager to plan and execute daily operations.
7. Animal care: Cowboys are responsible for the health and well-being of the cattle, and must be able to identify and treat common illnesses and injuries.
8. Other duties: Depending on the size and scope of the ranch, cowboys may be involved in a variety of other tasks, such as branding, vaccination, artificial insemination, and feeding.