Herd problems

The big horses are just off. I don't know if they're just missing Java or if Java was the brave one of the three, because suddenly going out in the pasture is scary. So scary that even if it's cold and there are well-filled hay nets out there, the big horse's will choose to huddle by the barn instead of eating. 

We've had a lot of snow, so that means the ponies can go out in the pasture, too. With the ponies out, the big horses are willing to venture forth and enjoy their hay. The ponies have no trouble running around the pasture, eating from the hay nets and then snuffling up any stray bits that have escaped even if they are not near the big horses. Brave ponies! Protecting the big horse's from all sorts of imaginary predators.

Today, though, the wind was so relentless and biting that I left the ponies in because the big horses don't always share the barn overhang with them. This meant the big horses were on their own again. At lunch, I went out to feed everyone and noticed that all the hay nets were still full. (Yes, they knew where the full hay nets were because I had to walk them out to them this morning.) There were also some hangry horses waiting for me in the barn. 

I do plan on getting a third full sized horse after mud season. I need to wait because I am not set-up to integrate a new horse in severe weather (cold or rain or mud). It's going to be a very long couple of months at this rate, though. 

Funny picture of Major and Emmy compliments of K.