How to Drive Cattle: A Comprehensive Guide for Modern Cowboys

In the world of ranching and livestock management, knowing how to drive cattle is an essential skill. Whether you're moving a herd between pastures, to market, or for veterinary care, proper cattle driving techniques ensure the safety and well-being of both the animals and the handlers. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the history, techniques, and modern practices of cattle driving.

Historical Context of Cattle Drives

Before we dive into the specifics of how to drive cattle, let's take a brief look at the historical significance of this practice:

European Roots

• Medieval central Europe saw regular cattle drives, with Hungarian Grey cattle being herded across the Danube River to Western European markets.

• The Swiss conducted drives over the St. Gotthard Pass to northern Italian markets.

• By the 18th century, up to 80,000 cattle were driven annually from Scotland, though this declined with the advent of dairy farming and cattle trains in the 1850s.

Australian Cattle Drives

• Australia is known for epic long-distance cattle drives.

• Patsy Durack's 1885 drive from Queensland to Western Australia covered 3,000 miles.

• The longest recorded drive began in 1883, lasting over three years and covering more than 6,000 kilometers from New South Wales to the Kimberley.

American West

• Cattle drives were a major economic activity from the 1850s to the early 20th century.

• Approximately 27 million cattle were driven from Texas to railheads in Kansas.

• A typical drive involved about 3,000 cattle and required a crew of at least 10 cowboys.

Understanding Cattle Behavior

Before attempting to drive cattle, it's crucial to understand their behavior:

• Cattle are herd animals and naturally follow a leader.

• They have a strong flight zone and point of balance.

• Cattle have wide-angle vision but poor depth perception.

• Loud noises and sudden movements can startle them.

Essential Gear for a Cattle Drive

To ensure a successful cattle drive, you'll need the following gear:

For Cowboys

1. Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection

2. Heeled cowboy boots for riding

3. Jeans or riding pants

4. Long-sleeve shirts

5. Warm outerwear (coat, gloves, scarf)

6. Western saddle with necessary tack

7. Lariat (lasso) for handling cattle

8. Personal items (sunscreen, first aid kit, water bottle)

For Horses

1. Bridles and reins

2. Saddle blankets

3. Spurs (if necessary)

4. Crupper for added saddle stability (if needed)

Additional Equipment

1. Chuckwagon for cooking and supplies

2. Camping gear (sleeping bags, towels, hygiene items)

3. Tools for emergency repairs

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Drive Cattle

Now, let's break down the process of driving cattle into manageable steps:

1. Preparation • Assemble your team, including a trail boss, point riders, swing riders, flank riders, drag riders, cook, and wrangler. • Prepare all necessary equipment and pack appropriately. • Select the route, considering water sources, grazing areas, and terrain challenges.

2. Starting the Drive • Gather the herd and ensure they're ready to move. • Position the riders: point riders at the front, swing riders on the sides, flank riders further back, and drag riders at the rear. • The wrangler should manage the remuda (spare horses), while the cook travels ahead with the chuckwagon.

3. Daily Operations • Begin before dawn with breakfast and saddling horses. • Move the herd, with point riders leading and setting the pace. • Swing and flank riders keep the herd together, while drag riders push slower cattle forward. • Address challenges like difficult terrain or river crossings as they arise. • Rotate horses periodically to keep them fresh. • Take a midday break for lunch and rest.

4. Evening Routine • Set up camp in a suitable location with access to water and grazing. • Prepare and eat dinner, addressing any issues and planning for the next day. • Establish night watches to keep the herd calm and safe.

5. Completion • Continue the daily routine until reaching the destination. • Count and identify the cattle upon arrival. • Handle any final transactions and disband the team.

Techniques for Moving Cattle

To effectively move cattle, employ these techniques:

• Position yourself at the edge of the flight zone.

• Use the point of balance to control movement.

• Apply pressure and release to guide the herd.

• Move in a zigzag pattern behind the cattle.

• Maintain a calm and steady pace.

Common Challenges and Solutions

During a cattle drive, you may encounter various challenges:

1. Stragglers: Use patience and gentle encouragement.

2. Aggressive cattle: Identify and separate them from the herd.

3. Obstacles: Guide the lead animals around them.

4. Weather conditions: Adjust your approach accordingly.

Safety Precautions

Always prioritize safety during a cattle drive:

1. Wear appropriate protective gear.

2. Maintain situational awareness.

3. Have an escape route planned.

4. Use proper communication with your team.

5. Never turn your back on cattle.

Best Practices for Efficient Cattle Driving

To ensure an efficient drive, follow these best practices:

• Start early in the day when temperatures are cooler.

• Allow the herd to move at a comfortable pace.

• Rotate handlers to prevent fatigue.

• Provide water and rest stops for longer drives.

• Regularly assess the herd's condition during the drive.

Modern Cattle Drives

While long-distance cattle drives are less common today due to modern transportation methods, they still occur within ranch boundaries to move cattle between pastures. Some ranches even offer cattle drive vacations, providing tourists with an authentic experience of moving cattle over rough terrain. For example, the Dryhead Ranch in Montana offers week-long cattle drive vacations along historic trails.

Cultural Significance

Cattle drives have been immortalized in fiction and film, contributing to the iconic image of the American cowboy. Events like the Great Montana Centennial Cattle Drive of 1989 celebrate this heritage, and daily cattle drives in places like the Fort Worth Stockyards continue to draw tourists, keeping this important piece of agricultural history alive.

The Role of the Trail Boss

The trail boss plays a crucial role in the success of a cattle drive. This leader is responsible for making key decisions that can make or break the journey. Here's what you need to know about the trail boss's responsibilities:

Decision-Making

• Selects the route, considering water sources, grazing areas, and terrain

• Decides when to start and stop the drive each day

• Chooses suitable stopping points for rest and overnight camps

Crew Management

• Assigns tasks to the cowboys, ensuring each position is filled

• Manages conflicts among the crew

• Coordinates with point riders to keep the herd moving in the right direction

Financial Responsibilities

• Handles financial matters, including collecting money when cattle are sold

• Pays the crew at the end of the drive

Essential Leadership Qualities for a Trail Boss

1. Strong decision-making ability

2. Excellent communication skills

3. Ability to motivate and lead the team

4. Integrity and trustworthiness

5. Problem-solving skills

6. Resilience and endurance

7. Extensive knowledge of cattle behavior and terrain

8. Adaptability to changing conditions

The Importance of the Remuda

The remuda, a herd of spare horses that accompanies the cattle drive, is a critical component of the operation. Here's why the remuda is so important:

• Provides fresh mounts for cowboys, allowing them to switch horses 2-3 times a day

• Maintains efficiency by preventing horse exhaustion

• Typically consists of about 100 horses for a drive

• Managed by a dedicated wrangler

• Allows cowboys to select mounts best suited for different terrains or conditions

• Enables long-distance travel over extended periods

• Considered a valuable asset, sometimes targeted by horse thieves

The Unsung Hero: The Cook's Contribution

While often overlooked, the cook plays a vital role in the success of a cattle drive. Here's how the cook contributes:

Meal Preparation

• Prepares all meals for the crew, maintaining energy and morale

• Wakes up early to make breakfast and ensures lunch and dinner are ready on time

Camp Management

• Manages the chuckwagon, setting up and breaking down camp each day

• Ensures everything is ready for the next meal and the next leg of the journey

Additional Responsibilities

• Often acts as the unofficial medic, carrying first aid supplies

• Serves as a mediator in disputes among cowboys

• Handles logistical tasks like orienting the wagon tongue north each night

• May take on roles like banker and barber

Challenges Faced by Drag Riders

Drag riders, typically less experienced cowboys positioned at the rear of the herd, face unique challenges:

1. Exhausting work pushing slower cattle forward and rounding up strays

2. Constant exposure to dust and dirt kicked up by the herd

3. Increased risk of injury from trampling or difficult terrain

4. Often seen as the least prestigious position, which can be demoralizing

5. Monotonous duties and constant exposure to the elements

Modern Adaptations of Cattle Driving

While traditional long-distance cattle drives are rare today, the practice has evolved to meet modern needs:

Ranch-Based Drives

• Many ranches still use cattle driving techniques to move herds between pastures

• These shorter drives maintain the skills and traditions of cattle driving

Tourism and Recreation

• Some ranches offer cattle drive vacations, allowing tourists to experience authentic cowboy work

• These experiences often combine traditional techniques with modern safety measures

Educational Programs

• Historical reenactments and living history programs teach about the importance of cattle drives in shaping the American West

• These programs help preserve the skills and knowledge associated with cattle driving

Technological Advancements

• Some modern ranches use helicopters or ATVs to assist in herding cattle over large areas

• GPS tracking devices can be used to monitor herd movements and health

Conservation Efforts

• Cattle drives are sometimes used in conservation efforts to manage grasslands and maintain ecosystem health

• These drives combine traditional techniques with modern ecological understanding

Conclusion

The art of driving cattle, while rooted in historical necessity, continues to evolve and find relevance in modern ranching, tourism, and conservation efforts. Whether you're a professional rancher, an aspiring cowboy, or simply fascinated by this aspect of agricultural heritage, understanding the intricacies of cattle driving provides valuable insights into animal management, teamwork, and the enduring spirit of the American West.

By mastering the techniques, understanding the roles within a cattle drive, and appreciating the historical context, you'll be well-prepared to participate in or manage a successful cattle drive. Remember, the key to success lies in respecting the animals, maintaining clear communication among the team, and adapting to the challenges that arise along the trail. Happy trails, and may your cattle drives be smooth and successful!

Richard Sutherland

RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.