Most ranchers try to get all their calves branded in the spring when the weather isn’t too warm and the calves aren’t too big.
But there are always a few that slip through and you have to catch them when they’re bigger. Heading and heeling is the preferred method around here for handling those big calves.
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Wyoming Life 
I saw this only in movies.
Hi Cornel! Branding is still a vital part of raising cattle in the Western US. It is how ownership is proven. Each ranch has a unique brand and a brand inspector must check each animal when it changes ownership.
Thanks for stopping by. I really enjoy your photos.