BANCROFT -- While freezing temperatures can stall cars, strain the power grid, and chill your bones, farmers have an added concern during winter; calving. While you're inside warming up, pregnant cows are stocking up on vitamins for their babies.

Beef extension educator Aaron Berger said this is especially difficult in the winter.

"The forage quality is at its lowest," he said.

When it's time for delivery, bovine producers kick things into high-gear; checking on newborn calves sometimes every other hour. That's not an easy task when the winds can give you frostbite within ten minutes.

Mike Guenther of Guenther Farms said he has to replace newborns' bedding daily. He's learned from past winters to keep a room specifically to warm the cows up.

A calf should have a body temperature of 101 degrees. Even if it can withstand the freezing chills, the first two months of life are filled with challenges as they are susceptible to illness.

Nebraska Congressman Jeff Fortenberry shared farmers' concerns, tweeting he's thankful there was sun and no wind Tuesday.

Experts like Karla Wilke say it is critical that calves do not lose weight during lactation periods.

Even with forecasts calling for warmer temperatures, ranchers can expect plenty of long nights before the season is over.