Mares and foals

Question
Dear Patt,
  My Mare Gave birth on April 17, 2004 to a colt. My question is can foals be independent at birth, because this colt will not follow it's mother and I have a hard time trying to put them out side. I just found out today that he is eating her food already and he is only 4 days old. The mare is a good mother but this colt likes to do things on his own. Please give me some insight on this matter, I would greatly appreciate it very much.  Thank You   Audra

Answer
HI AUDRA
MOST LIKELY THIS IS A SUPER STRONG DUDE AND DRINKS ENOUGH MILK AT NIGHT IT IS NOT UNUSUAL TO START TO KNIBBLE FOOD.  WISH SOME OF MINE DID THIS EARLY.
DO NOT PUT THEM WITH ANY OTHER HORSE FOR GELDINGS WILL TAKE A FOAL OFF THE MOTHER AND IT CAN STARVE, LET THEM ALONE, KEEP FOOD AT HIM AND HE IS GOING TO DO GREAT.  HE DOES NOT HAVE TO BE AT HER SIDE UNLESS THEY ARE RUNNING WITH OTHERS, I NEVER PUT A MARE AND NEW FOAL WITH ANY OTHERS TILL ITS A GOOD MONTH OLD.

KIND REGARDS
PATT
WWW.SCHREKNHAUS.COM
KEEP LOTS OF FRESH WATER ALSO.