On ranches and farms, a cowpuncher looks after livestock. Some of a cowpuncher’s specific responsibilities may differ depending on the type of livestock with which he or she works, but the basic tasks remain the same. Cows, sheep, goats, poultry, horses, and other livestock must all be fed and watered on a daily basis, regardless of whether the ranch hand is dealing with cows, sheep, goats, poultry, horses, or any other animal. Cleaning of stalls, yards, and pens is required, as are regular inspections of the animals’ health. Animals must also be monitored to avoid injury and to ensure that they do not consume poisonous plants while grazing.
Cowpuncher is a term used to describe a cowboy. Ropes, hats, boots, and chaps are the most common tools of the trade. Other necessities include horses, saddles, and spurs. A bedroll, canteen, eating utensils, and cooking implements are all necessary items for an overnight cattle drive.
Herding, castrating, breeding, and protecting livestock from predators are some of the responsibilities of a cowpuncher. A cowpuncher may also sort and weigh the animals, administer medications, measure feed and nutritional supplements, and transport livestock to new grazing areas. In addition, the ranch hand may be required to keep track of livestock purchases, sales, growth, and weight. Another job requirement could be to brand, tag, mark, or otherwise identify each animal. Working animals, such as dogs and horses, are also the responsibility of cowpunchers.
The type of animal under the cowboy’s care often dictates specific responsibilities. Shearing, docking, and lambing may be the responsibility of ranch hands who work with sheep. On a poultry farm, a farm hand might be in charge of collecting eggs, placing them in incubators, and debeaking fowl. Dairy farm workers will be responsible for milking cows, collecting milk, and maintaining milking equipment. Wranglers are people who train and work with horses that are used to herd livestock.
Cowpunchers are frequently in charge of artificial insemination and helping with animal births. Operation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of farm equipment and machinery may be part of the job description. Cowboys are also in charge of erecting fences and sheds. It is necessary to inspect and repair these structures.
Weed control may also be the responsibility of ranch hands. Spraying weeds along fences, in ditches, and in pastures can help to ensure that proper forage is grown. Because many farms and ranches grow their own feed, the cowpuncher may be required to prepare the soil, plant, irrigate, and apply fertilizers and pesticides. Cutting, bailing, and transporting hay are all tasks that can be performed.