I’m convinced the secret to understanding animals is eye contact. Squat down, get on their level, and suddenly you will understand.
Once I can see what they are seeing, it’s easy to figure out whatever they are trying to tell me.
Sometimes, it’s someone stuck in a fence. Twine wrapped around a foot. Out of water. S T A R V I N G ! ! ! (must be a storm coming)
As I do my chores, morning and evening, I try to make and take time to just listen. They all have very important things to tell me. I often just nod and smile, but I can tell by the tenor and pace and loudness of the chatter whether everything is okay or if there is a problem.