Born in late September, Bess had a tough start. Her mother passed away shortly after giving birth, and at just 50 pounds, she suddenly found herself needing more than a pasture—she needed a family. That’s where Laura Morgan, along with members of our grounds crew, stepped in.

Without hesitation, they began bottle feeding Bess four times a day, ensuring she got the nutrition and care she needed to thrive. Her iconic white belt was perfectly in place from the start, and even as a tiny calf, she was full of personality. Now, just nine months later, Bess weighs over 525 pounds and has grown into a strong, playful, and unmistakably charming member of the herd.

Bess used to get herself stuck inside the hay bale ring (too curious for her own good), but she’s outgrown that phase as these days she’s graduated to a high-protein feed calf feed. She has the most amazing long, fluttery eyelashes, and an unmistakable love for attention—especially when it involves being brushed. Her favorite thing? Laying back in her hay bed with the fan blowing on her, soaking up the pampered life she most certainly deserves.

To keep Bess company, we recently weaned another young heifer from her mother and introduced her to Bess as a pasturemate. We named her Buehla, and the two have become fast friends—grazing, playing, and lounging together in the front pasture with the goats and chickens nearby.

And now, Bess and Buehla have a new challenge: they’re being halter-trained to be shown at the North Carolina State Fair later this year! With their great looks, sweet temperaments, and outgoing personalities, we think they’ll be crowd favorites.

Want to meet them? Laura and her partner Newt feed Bess and Buehla every afternoon around 4:30pm in the front pasture and are always happy to introduce them to guests. They love the attention, and we love sharing their story.

Next time you’re visiting Fearrington Village, take a stroll past the pasture—you just might spot Bess and Buehla enjoying the breeze, practicing their runway walk, and living their very best cow lives.