The Stork Paid Us a Visit

Yesterday, Bill left home early in the morning and as the car passed our field beside the drive, he noticed a newborn foal struggling to stand.  He told me what he had seen so I went to check it out.

The new mother was not impressed when I arrived and decided she didn't like me on the other side of the fence clicking pictures.  She encouraged the little one to move deeper into the field.

It wasn't an easy task.  Little One's legs just didn't work well yet.

Upon seeing me near the feeding area, everyone else decided to see if I had any treats.  They were surprised to see the new addition to the family.  Mom didn't encourage any socializing.  She kept her body between Little One and the rest of the herd while watching me constantly.

I texted their owner and congratulated him on becoming a grandparent.  He was shocked!  The veterinarian stated she was not due for a month and the owner had checked her the night before - no signs of anything. They came to examine her immediately.  Both mother and baby were fine so it was decided to move them later in the day; however, he warned she is a "mean mama bear" after delivery so I shouldn't go inside the fence.  No arguments from me there.  

Mom moved Little One to the far back part of the field where even a telephoto lens couldn't see them.  Later, they returned to the feeding area with the herd for meal time. 

"Horses are stinky." sniffed Scooter.

Evidently, Mean Mama Bear had set the rules about how to treat Little One, and everyone was being obedient.  Their owner brings large round bales of hay to supplement the fresh grass.  The herd was eating the trampled hay, while Mom and Baby were dining alone around the fresh bale.

Even while feeding, Mom kept an eye out for danger.

Soon, company arrived.

It was time to make the swap.  

Refreshments were being served so everyone chose their place at the table.

Afterward, it was time for the horse whisperer to go to work.  Mom wouldn't listen.  She hid behind the trees and didn't cooperate.  He shook the magic bucket full of delicacies as he coaxed her with promises of better things: wear the lead rope and you can have something special.

As they neared the gate, Mom's best friend realized she was leaving and pitched a fit!  She was not happy about being left alone (with only the rest of the herd for conversation) and came rushing over to protest.

Mom let her know she was not happy with the outburst and promptly kicked her soundly.  Baby comes first now!

True to his promise, she got to munch on the delicious, forbidden grass on the other side of the fence.  Oh, it was so good and the perfect reward for agreeing to wear the lead.

Mrs. Breeder couldn't resist the opportunity while Mom was distracted to rub baby's fur. I, on the other hand, was not tempted to get close to those powerful
teeth and flying hooves. That is why she is a breeder and I am a photographer.

After enjoying the treat, it was time to travel. They will return someday in the future when Little One has grown into Big One.

The link to the story of their arrival:

Our New Roommates

The Stork Returns for Another Visit

The Last Straw...Hat!