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Show Sheep herds usually remained on the winter desert slightly more than half of each year, but the exact length of time was determined by the readiness of new grass on a spring range and by the premature or delayed advance of the winter season each year. THE HOWS OF TRAILING John K accomplished trailing by riding his horse or leading it as he walked, to direct a herd of sheep to wherever he wanted them to go. Often, more than one man was needed to regulate a full band of trailing sheep. Trained dogs of uncanny intelligence and ability answered the herder's meaningful whistles or calls to return a wandering stray, or control an entire herd. Anyone who has driven an automobile through a large flock of sheep on a highway knows how slow, distracting, and unpredictable the individual animals can be. Today, with designated off-highway trails in many areas, and the trucking of more sheep rather than trailing-and when there are fewer sheep than in early years-it is a rare experience to encounter and drive through a band of trailing ewes. Trailing was a dusty business for John K and his herders who often appeared to be grey, walking or horse-riding statues, and they couldn't help breathing and swallowing dust. Sheep herders have commanded respect for their perserverance and patience-especially when walking. 57 |
