Portuguese Ranch Corral Turn at Twilight

Sun-bleached wooden rails form a curved corral gate where a herd of cattle moves in a tight turn. Dust trails curl behind the animals, suspended in the cool, reflected light that washes over the wet ground. Low-lying fog pools in the depressions of the pasture, softening the base of the split-gate chains that hang loosely. The overcast sky diffuses the twilight, casting a uniform gray glow across the wet earth and the dark coats of the livestock. The wooden posts stand weathered and pale against the darker, damp soil. A small puddle near the gate reflects the dull sky and the legs of the nearest cow. The chains dangle just above the ground, catching the faint light.