The Hunters Become the Hunted

Sam surveyed the area directly around the cow, noting the details. He noticed a drag mark leading away from the cow’s position toward the east.

Pulling his 30/30 Rifle from its saddle holster, Sam calmly stated to Rainey, “You stay and take care of her, I’ll follow the trail.”

Not that Sam didn’t believe that Rainey couldn’t handle the coyotes. She was raised on this ranch. She knew how to handle herself. However, the cow needed to be helped, and Sam would be beside himself if the bronco champion rider would be injured when he could keep her from it.

Sam quickly rode, following the trail. Soon, he witnessed the calf, still alive and calling for its mother, being dragged and nipped at by three coyotes. They obviously were hungry enough to attempt to chow down on their meal before it was dead. Each time a coyote would bite, the calf kicked it away.

Sam aimed at the one that was approaching the calf, let out his breath, and fired. The target dropped. The other two were now spooked. Before they could take off, Sam quickly fired two more rounds. Both dropped.

Sam quickly rode to the calf. It’s legs were badly hurt and bleeding. Sam thought the calf was still strong though, as she was putting up a good fight.

Bending over, Sam lifted the calf up and over Pale Moon. He pulled a rope from his saddle and secured the calf to it.

Walking and guiding Pale Moon, he headed back toward where he left Rainey. It took him a bit longer to get back to her. He was happy to be bringing the calf back to her. He was proud to have eliminated the predators as well.