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One quick question. What about our
foals that eat manure? Why do they do it? I find it completely
disgusting. My little filly paws and chows down mouthfuls of fresh, warm
poop.
Terry
Alabama
Dear Terry,
This charming behavior is called
coprophagia, from the Latin for "feces eating." In young foals
of any equid species, it appears to be just as normal as grooming,
nursing, or romping. There is an obvious peak in frequency at about two
weeks to one month of age. It is usually the dam's feces, and you're
right--they can ingest substantial quantities, and freshly voided manure
seems to stimulate their interest. In wondering why this behavior has
evolved (meaning the benefits have outweighed the risks), veterinarians
and animal scientists typically discuss a couple of ideas. One is that
eating feces of an adult herdmate might effectively populate the gut of
the young with the "good" microorganisms that aid in
digestion. Another idea is that parasite eggs are ingested as well,
possibly stimulating the young immune system to build a defense against
parasites. There's probably not good proof, but I find thinking about
potential benefits can dispel disgust. However, it is thought that
coprophagy is a good reason to keep mares on a deworming schedule pre-partum
as prescribed by a veterinarian, since the foal will be ingesting
parasites. |