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From its bird's eye view of from 100 to 200 feet up, the helicopter makes short work of searching out cattle in rough brush country. Then it swoops down to within 20 to 30 feet off the ground . . flushes the cattle out. Being able to back and fill, slow down or speed up, hover and weave back and forth, the helicopter pilot literally herds the cattle exactly where he wants them to go. It's an easy matter then for the cowboys to drive them to the branding or loading area . . the whole operation at half the time required without the helicopter's help.

RIDING FENCE . .
PATROLLING WATER TANKS

Doing the job of 15 to 20 hands for round-up work is only part of the helicopter's value to the rancher. It simplifies riding fence . . inspection is extremely fast, efficient and economical. And, when a wire is down or a post out, the helicopter simply sets down and repairs are made on the spot.

Patrol of water tanks is another easy task for this aerial cowpoke . . a job it does for one rancher in 3 to 4 hours that normally required 3 to 4 days by routine methods. Grass checks, wild game surveys and checks on predatory animals are other ways the helicopter pays for its keep. Eradication of coyotes and wolves is important to the rancher, since they prey on stock as well as being a menace to game. These elusive animals are difficult to track down by foot, but they find it hard to hide from the helicopter. Once spotted they are a perfect target for the aerial huntsman.

In the words of one rancher-owner.."We are firmly convinced that the results already achieved with the Bell helicopter have more than justified its purchase. It has proved itself as one of the most worthwhile investments the ranch ever made."

Cowboy 'Copter, herding cattle out of the brush