The Spurge is back

Leafy spurge is a weed in Stillwater County, Montana and most other places where it grows wild. It has a very deep tap root, 20 to 30 feet deep, the sap is like latex, and uncontrolled, it will take over your property. Less than a mile from where these pictures were taken, a rancher once lost his ranch because he said, I ain't never going to have sheep on my ranch, I'm a cattleman. The spurge took over and he lost his ranch. How is it controlled. Sheep eat it, it has between 35-40% protein, so it's great feed. There is a spurge beetle that is available to the ranchers in early July. This is the only other way to control the weed. Originally it was imported from Russia as an ornamental plant.

The first picture tells the story. This neighbor has turned his sheep onto the county road to eat the leafy spurge. It is the yellowish green looking plant in the pictures. The county can't control it with weed spray, so let the sheep loose. The second picture is part of the flock as they move down the road, grazing on the spurge, and the final picture is one of a mother and her lamb, the mother's mouth full of spurge and the lamb enjoying the day.

The Johnson Place which is the 5000 acre ranch to the south of ours is loaded with spurge. The semi's have been arriving for several days and ultimately there will be at least 3000 sheep there for the summer. Yes, in case you are wondering, we have spurge on our property also.

DOUBLE CLICK ON THE IMAGES AND YOU"LL SEE THE SPURGE

Free ride or Do ewe care

Favorite photograph, week of February 28, 2009

As I was driving down the Grove Creek Road, specifically looking for new born calves, I couldn't help but stop and take this photograph. After some research, I have determined this is a European Starling on the back of the ewe. I image the purpose of the "free ride" is multiple. It's warmer on the back of the ewe than anywhere else, the bird gets an elevated view without spending any energy, and the primary reason is to pick bugs, grubs, or parasites out of the fleece. The baby calves and lambs will be coming soon.