We had some snowy arrivals this week. It seems both goats & pigs were waiting until the wintery snow came back to bring their little ones into the world. Perhaps they are winter lovers, perhaps calming the world was help, perhaps that barometric pressure change…or just luck. But the birthing has begun, with more to come.
Our sow Ramona Quimby delivered her litter in the wee hours as the snow started. Fortunately the lovely barn and a deep straw nest, and the relatively mild temps keep them all cozy. Piglets won’t leave the deep straw nest for a few days yet as they start to figure out the world around them.
Ramona’s piglets were the inspiration for a new poem by 0ne of our members, Cara Armstrong, who is also the Director of Norwich University’s School of Architecture + Art. Thanks to her for sharing this, reminding us of the simple beauty in life, when we slow down to take it all in.
In Praise of Tamworths
Deep-sided Ramona’s strong arch of back
curls around her first pigs of spring.
Snow in late April,
snuffling in the hay.
Praise song for the Tamworths,
long of neck, long of leg,
to the milky and protective mother,
to their long snouts and fringed ears.
Praise song for their wide heads
and light jowls,
their dear slightly dished faces
and agreeable disposition.
Praise song for their pale gingery
to dark mahogany skin
and for their golden red coats
whose bristles prevent sunburn.
– Cara Armstrong
The goat kids, piglets, & turkey poults (once they arrive) will be accepting visitors starting next week. We are hosting three “Meet the New Arrivals” farm tours during this birthing season: May 5th, May 19th and May 28th. Check out our events page for more details.