Prairie Mamas - Song Page

© words & music by Annie Wilson
from album Out on the Tallgrass Prairie

ALBUM NOTE:

When I see animal mothers, I think about them.

All parents, in fact all who care for others, are aware of the depth of our dedication and strength of our bond with our child.  

This song explores how animal mothers - cows, deer, bobcats, and others - are intently focused on nurturing, protecting, and teaching their babies, just as we are our children. 

The parenting strategies are different, but the stakes are just as high and the commitment is the same.  

With any of us, it instinct or love, or both? 

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LYRICS

The mama cow licks her calf 

in morning’s early light,

And through the day as he plays 

she keeps him in her sight.

He romps around the other calves 

then-quickly looks to her,

scampers right back to her side -

he place he feels secure.

 

The mother doe feeds her fawn 

in dark before the dawn.

Then hides him in the tallest grass 

and leaves him all alone.

‘Cause if he hid beside her 

there in the light of day,

the predators would find him.

He’s better off away.

 

Like mothers of all creatures,

Prairie mamas do their best

To nurture and protect the lives 

With which they have been blessed.

Survival of their babies 

Is the focus of their minds.

As certain as the sun will rise, 

Their lives are intertwined.   

 

The bobcat kittens nestle safe 

Inside a hollow log

Until one day their mama leads them 

Outside of their home.

They follow her – learning how 

To hunt and to survive.

She teaches them to find their way 

And how to stay alive.

         

CHORUS

 

Beavers, gophers, birds and mice:

Each cares for her young.

Bison, coyotes, badgers –

Strong-mothers every one.

Is it instinct?  Is it love? 

We may never know.

If they’re like us, probably 

A little bit of both.

 

CHORUS