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Mon, 5 Aug 1996 15:09:41 -0700 |
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Lisa,
Rabbits are 'nesters', animals that leave their infants hidden in nests
and feed them infrequently. Rabbit milk, as a consequence, is very high
in fat and protein, to tide the bunnies over to the next feeding.
Nesters are generally vulnerable animals, and this strategy of infrequent
visits to the nest makes it less likely that predators will follow mom to
the helpless babies. Also, being herbivoires, rabbits need to graze for
long periods of time to meet their nutritional needs. We humans (and
other primates) are 'carriers', the opposite of nesters, our milk is
relatively dilute, and we are made to feed our infants almost constantly,
and take them with us wherever we go.
Animals who have multiple babies often have a few early demises,
it is sad, but not a sign that the mother is not taking care of the
infants. Keep us posted.
--
Catherine Watson Genna, IBCLC NYC [log in to unmask]
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