Baby horse has unusual snack before afternoon nap

Felix is a three week old foal with a very outgoing and happy personality. He lives on a beautiful farm near Peterborough, Ontario, along with his mother, Fling, an amazing mare with a gentle and trusting disposition. The two share this home with five other horses, cows, dogs and a few other farm animals. Felix and Fling spend much of their day wandering in the lush, green meadows or playing in the paddock.Show more

Felix is still nursing and doesn't really eat grass, or anything else, bit he imitates his mother as she nibbles grass and hay. He will try to eat almost anything, including the dirt, as we see in this video. Felix is merely exploring his surroundings, tasting everything and trying to decide what is food and what isn't. Although this behavior in horses can be a sign of mineral deficiency, or even boredom, Felix suffers from neither. He is just being a foal. Much like puppies, they explore their world with their mouths.

Felix runs, bounces, and plays with enthusiasm, putting full effort into his activities all day long. It is no wonder that he wears himself out and becomes tired in the afternoon. As he lay down on the warm dirt for a rest, he decided to have a little nibble. But fatigue quickly overcame him and he stretched out for his afternoon nap. Fling continued to graze nearby, keeping a careful watch over him. Despite living in complete safety here on this farm, horses are prey animals and they are always watchful for predators. Felix can run, but he hasn't got his full balance and he hasn't learned to defend himself yet. Until he does, Fling will never venture far from him. She will always be on the ready to protect him.

Felix and Fling are unusual horses. Having been handled and exposed to people right from birth, they have developed an unusually high level of trust and acceptance for people. Once she has checked you out and found you to be suitable, she will allow close contact with Felix. Felix particularly loves cuddling, rolling on his back, and having his belly rubbed. Fling will graze contentedly nearby and allow this to happen, as long as Felix is happy.

Felix will continue to live with Fling for several months until he no longer needs to nurse and learn from her. When he is independent and strong enough to look out for himself he will go to a nearby farm where he will find his forever home with a very loving family.