Music and magic aside, I believe the question relates to cows.

Cows have a pecking order just like any other social animals. The cowbell was placed on the lead cow. I assume today that would be called the alpha female. There would be no alpha male, bulls were segregated except in breeding season. All the other cows will follow the lead cow where ever she goes. If they are out of sight ( and moving ) you can locate them from the sound.

During the winter when they are being fed they will come to the sound of their owner's pickup if they can see or hear it. If they can't hear it, they will come to the sound of the horn.

If the owner feeds them about the same time every day, he will not need to call them. They will be at the feeding location waiting at "dinner" time.

If visibility is bad due to brush or trees, he will be able to hear them coming through the trees as they approach.
Source(s):
My family has been in the ranching business since 1889
( Yes, 120 years )

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