Maverick (animal)
A maverick is an animal, usually a form of cattle, that does not carry a brand.[1] It is a word also used to describe a person who acts free from constraints or organizational guidelines.
Etymology
The term maverick derives from Samuel Maverick, a rancher who among other claims to fame was notorious for not branding his cattle.[2]
Other analogous U.S. terms include slick,[1] hairy dick,[3] and, in Spanish-speaking areas of the Southwest, orejano.[4] In other parts of the world different terms are used. In Australia and New Zealand, for example, an unbranded animal is a cleanskin.[5]
History
American Old West
In the era of
The US today
Some animals are left unbranded today for reasons that include being destined for the show ring, to avoid a scar on a hide intended for leatherworking, and opposition to its "overt cruelty". These animals, however, are not left free of
implanting, usually in the neck.As a result of this variety of methods, and the reality that most cattle today are run on private ranches, an unidentified mature animal is rarely found today. When one is, the most common practice is to make a concerted effort to locate a possible owner; failing that, the animal is typically put up for
References
- ^ ISBN 978-0-393-31473-1. Retrieved 2009-04-26.
- ^ "Original 'Maverick' Was Unconventional Cattleman", NPR, Morning Edition, September 5, 2008
- ISBN 978-0-8032-5917-1. Retrieved 2009-04-27.
- ISBN 978-0-393-31473-1. Retrieved 2009-04-26.
- ^ Peden, Robert (2008-11-27). "Beef farming". Te Ara: The Encyclopedia of New Zealand. New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage. Retrieved 2009-04-27.