Protecting the herd.
Large animals like cows often have to fend for themselves when predators approach. Like horses, their fight or flight instinct kicks in when needed, and they will do what they can to protect themselves and their herd. But unlike horses, cattle do not exactly have the speed that equines possess, so it’s common to see a herding dog or a donkey in the mix for additional protection.
But every so often, cattle won’t be afraid to get down to stay safe.
One rancher is going viral on social media for showcasing the lengths cows will go to protect their herd, with a prime example coming from some of his head. The rancher pulled out his phone to record his herd looking at a coyote on the ground. Given that the coyote is not running towards the herd and is still in the grass, it leads one to believe that the cows have already injured the coyote and are investing further to ensure it will not lash out at them again.
As a few cows, which are moms based on their utters, inch toward the predator, the coyote has one last ditch to save his life and snaps at one of the cows. Suddenly, a big momma charges the animal and stomps on the coyote. While it’s crazy to see a cow truly beat up another animal, especially such a massive predator toward cattle like a coyote, but this is actually a common defense tactic.
According to Deer Creek Stables, cattle make buddy systems in times like this, having additional cattle as backup if needed.
“Herd animals have a natural tendency to ‘bunch.’ This defense mechanism is how cows and goats protect themselves from predators, who prefer a moving target to animals that stand their ground.”
After the coyote was taken to hoof city (if that Loretta Lynn reference went over your head, I’m so sorry), another cow stepped up to the animal to make sure it was no longer a threat. The coyote still had a little more in it and snapped again, this time getting a good bite on the cow’s face. The cow then tosses its head, sending the coyote flying.
As the coyote flies through the air, its hind end is stained red, indicating that the cattle severely injured the predator. While it’s a graphic scene to watch, it does illustrate how prey animals can step up to the plate to protect themselves when needed. Especially, when they have babies nearby.
This coyote picked the wrong herd to mess with, and paid the ultimate price.
@danielpope06 Got my coyote dogs on one today. #killer #cows #hunting ♬ original sound – Daniel Pope
Check out some of the comments left on the post:
“Good cows!!!”
“The black and white said YEET.”
“Momma cows ain’t playing!”
“That’s crazy; they have to be able to protect themselves, so game on!!”
“That one got a bit of a noise piercing there lol.”
“Man, those gray-colored beef cows are NUTS!”
“Nature in its rarest form.”
“Mama Cows don’t play when it comes to Yotes.”
“Good guard dogs.”
“Oh my gosh, that’s crazy.”
“I swear nothing is more fierce than a momma cow!”
