On-campus foal cameras have returned to Delaware Valley University in partnership with the Pennsylvania Horse Racing Association. Beginning Monday, Feb. 23, viewers can watch as expectant mares in DelVal’s Breeding Center prepare to give birth.
This year, the footage will feature three mares, each due in March:
- Thistle Dhu due March 10
- Ocean Love Potion due March 11
- To The Good Life due March 19
Although the foal cams only follow the journey of three mares, DelVal is expecting a total of nine foals this spring. Two mares have already delivered their foals, beginning with Sapphire, born on Feb. 5, and Garnet, born Feb. 17. Students currently taking the Advanced Equine Reproduction course will spend the next several weeks caring for and tending to each of the mares and their foals. Viewers will see these students working hands-on with the mares throughout the entire foaling process, including being present and helping during the birth of the foals.
These students also collectively decide on a theme by which they individually name the foal they help birth. This year, the students have landed on the theme Gemstones.
“The foal cams give the public a real-time window into the hands-on learning that defines the DelVal experience,” said Dr. Cory Kieschnick, Chair of Equine Science and Management at DelVal. “Our students are actively involved in every stage of the breeding and foaling process, producing graduates with both the technical skills and the theoretical foundation needed to succeed in the equine industry.”
The foal cams can be viewed free of charge at the Pennsylvania Horse Racing Association.
Learn more about Equine Science and Management at Delaware Valley University.
