Delaware Valley University, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Horse Racing Association (PHRA), will resume its on-campus foal camera program starting Monday, February 23. The live-streamed cameras will allow viewers to observe three mares at DelVal’s Breeding Center as they approach their expected delivery dates in March.
The mares featured this year are Thistle Dhu, due March 10; Ocean Love Potion, due March 11; and To The Good Life, due March 19. In total, the university expects nine foals this spring. Two mares have already given birth: Sapphire on February 5 and Garnet on February 17.
Students enrolled in the Advanced Equine Reproduction course are responsible for caring for the mares and newborn foals over the coming weeks. Viewers tuning into the foal cams will be able to see students working directly with the animals throughout labor and delivery.
As part of a class tradition, students choose a theme each year for naming the foals they assist in delivering. This year’s theme is Gemstones.
“The foal cams give the public a real-time window into the hands-on learning that defines the DelVal experience,” says Chair of Equine Science and Management Dr. Cory Kieschnick. “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 public can access the live feeds free of charge through PHRA’s website at pennhorseracing.com/foalcams.
Additional details about Delaware Valley University’s Equine Science and Management department as well as information about its Advanced Equine Reproduction course are available at delval.edu/equine.