Room for One: The Danger of Twin Foals
Animal Science- Grade:
- 3
- Teacher:
- Michael Schaefer
Last year, I completed a science fair project that explored how UV light helps mares go into estrus (heat) to prepare for breeding. My family and I bred our horse, and now we have a healthy colt and a happy mare. During the pregnancy, I asked the veterinarian if the mare was having twins. She said no and explained that twin pregnancies in horses are very risky and usually do not have good outcomes for the mare and the foals. She told me that if a mare is carrying twins, one foal should be removed, or the pregnancy may not continue because it is unsafe. Although there are “old wives' tales” of mares safely giving birth to twins, the veterinarian explained that this is very rare and not supported by modern veterinary medicine. I did not understand why twin pregnancies were so dangerous for horses, so I wanted to learn more. The topic of how the uterus size affects fetal development, what nutrients are necessary for survival during gestation and how reproductive systems evolve to match the species needs are important topics in the animal science category.
I liked how you built on last years project to discover something new.
Beautiful presentation! Your graphics and collection of images make this project visually appealing.
More importantly, you have conveyed your passion and interest in animal sciences. Your inquisitive nature and dedication to find answers will help you excel in the sciences. Do you think you will be a vet one day? My daughter has always loved animals and she became a vet. It took a lot of dedication, and I think you could do all that hard work too if you want. On a side note, one interesting thing my daughter does in her job is to give acupuncture and electro therapy to horses. But…. I bet you know more about horse fetuses now than she does!
Me siento muy orgulloso de que estés estudiando algo que disfrutas, en lo que piensas mucho y quieres comprender mejor. You did a great job!