Cake and Colostrum

Hello again! 

​In this week’s issue of The Foaling Files, we talk about our latest arrivals here at Byerley Stud, the importance of colostrum, and the baked goods which have kept us going.

We welcomed two new arrivals in the maternity yard this week. Despite the cold and frosty weather, the frost wasn’t for stopping two of our mares from getting on with things and foaling in minus temperatures. I think the only thing the frost stopped around here, was the feeling in our fingers and toes!

First up was Courteous Crown, who foaled a chestnut filly foal by the exciting first-season sire Caturra. Possessing many similarities to her dam - most notably her big white face – this bright and bonny filly is a half-sister to three-time winning 2YO, and exciting 3YO campaigner, Zoulu Chief, as well as the recently turned 2YO colt by Kameko, who was sold last year as a yearling for €115,000. Next up was Silky Sue who foaled a strong, forward, and very attractive filly by Advertise. Owned by Mr Frank Lowe, Silky Sue is a half-sister to his brilliant race mare, Gale Force Maya, who recorded a highest Official Rating of 107 when in training on the flat for Michael Dods. Gale Force Maya is new to Byerley Stud this year and will embark upon her first breeding season come the 14th of February.

​The first moments after a foal is born are crucial for its health and well-being. One of the key factors that contribute to a foal's successful start in life is colostrum, often referred to as the "liquid gold" of the equine world. Colostrum is the first milk produced by the mare shortly after giving birth. It's not just any milk; colostrum is a nutrient-rich fluid that is jam-packed with essential antibodies, vitamins, and minerals. This golden elixir provides the foal with everything it needs to kickstart its immune system and thrive in its new environment. Newborn foals are born with immature immune systems, making them highly susceptible to infections and diseases. Colostrum plays a pivotal role in providing passive immunity to the foal by transferring antibodies from the mare. These antibodies act as the foal's first line of defence, protecting it against a myriad of potential threats. Both the mares who foaled this week recorded very high levels of colostrum in their milk. Measuring colostrum quality with a refractometer, both mares had a reading with a Brix value of ≥ 30%. Both mares were foaled by stud manager, Ian Bradbury.

​Steady enough at the moment, but thankfully when we’re really busy, energy stores are regularly supplied by the generous weekly baking from members of the team throughout the season! This week it was Kirstie’s turn, who baked buttercream and jam-filled fairy cakes, and homemade brie and cranberry sausage rolls – delicious. A guilty confession, but all baked goods were cleaned up by Monday afternoon!

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