Steve Sieke prepares to rope a calf at the branding roundup Sunday, Jan. 26, in Anza. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
The bawling of calves, the thunder of horse’s hooves, clouds of dust and the fine-tuned coordination of cowboys and cowgirls with their mounts were on display Sunday, Jan. 26.The old holding pens off state Route 371 by the Cahuilla motocross track came alive with time-honored, real-life action as the cattle were crowded into sturdy corrals and calves separated from the herd.Clouds of gritty dust erupted as the young animals were expertly roped, subdued, examined and given vaccinations, worming medication and branded.The main purpose of branding cattle is to prove ownership of lost or stolen livestock. Many western U.S. states have strict laws regarding brands, including brand registration and require brand inspections. A brand on an animal is considered proof of ownership.
