As we move deeper into the growing season, it’s a joy to see how much our calves have developed. Their early fragility is giving way to a confident independence. Though they’re still nursing and need their mothers for milk, it’s clear that their instincts are kicking in. These young animals are transitioning steadily into ruminants, grazing throughout the day and mimicking the mature cows with growing skill and appetite.

What’s most striking this month is their curiosity. The calves aren’t just nibbling clover and orchardgrass—they’re particularly drawn to the budding brush and low-hanging tree branches along the fencelines. Willow, multiflora rose, young ash, and locust saplings have become an unexpected treat. Their eagerness for these tender shoots highlights just how diverse and self-directed a cow’s diet becomes when given a chance to graze in a natural environment.

From dawn to dusk, the herd is fully turned out, scattered across the fields. They no longer cluster at the gates or linger in the barnyard. The cattle are content, moving as a unit and bedding down in the clover when the sun gets high. It’s a peaceful scene and a sign that the rotational grazing system and regenerative practices here at Stella Manor are working.

For us, it’s a season of observation—watching for signs of weaning readiness, maintaining fencing around our more desirable trees, and giving these animals the freedom and nutrition they need to thrive. Watching these calves grow into self-sufficient grazers is one of the most rewarding parts of raising cattle the right way.

We’ll continue to share updates as the season progresses, but for now, the pasture is home, and the herd is thriving.